Cystatin C Level as a Marker of Kidney Function in Human Immunodeficiency Virus InfectionThe FRAM Study

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Abstract
Kidney disease has been identified as an important complication of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.1 Investigators have noted the increasing prevalence of HIV in the population with end-stage renal disease, as well as the high prevalence of kidney disease in persons with HIV.2-5 This high prevalence may be owing to the longer life expectancy in the highly active antiretroviral therapy era. Whether HIV infection has a direct effect on kidney function is not known. In addition, there is substantial evidence that HIV infection is independently associated with many risk factors for kidney disease, such as adverse changes in lipid levels,6,7 increased insulin resistance,8,9 and microalbuminuria.10 Taken together, these factors illustrate the need for a population-based study of kidney function in HIV-infected individuals and healthy controls.