How has highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) altered the incidence of opportunistic GI disorders?
- Since the introduction of protease inhibitors and HAART in 1995, there has been a constant and dramatic decline of all GI opportunistic disorders (ODs) in AIDS patients.
- In addition, HAART has also been shown to indirectly treat many GI ODs.
- Once the immune status of the patient improves, the OD generally resolves.
- However, careful follow-up of patients receiving HAART early on is mandatory as their condition can decompensate as a result of immune reconstitution syndrome (IRIS).
