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Original Research
Comparative analysis of inflammatory markers in HIV-positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy versus HIV-negative individuals in South Africa
Submitted: 10 January 2025 | Published: 26 September 2025
About the author(s)
Lungile Ndlovu, Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Applied and Health Sciences, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Durban, South AfricaNokukhanya Thembane, Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Applied and Health Sciences, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
Ziningi N. Jaya, Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Applied and Health Sciences, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
Abstract
Background: HIV is associated with chronic inflammation and immune activation, which can persist even in individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART), increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, neurocognitive disorders, and other inflammatory conditions.
Objective: This study comparatively investigates inflammatory markers among HIV-positive individuals receiving ART with those in HIV-negative individuals.
Methods: We analysed retrospective laboratory results, including viral load, C-reactive protein (CRP), and D-dimer, from 275 individuals (aged 0–39 years) treated at a tertiary hospital in South Africa. The study period commenced on 02 December 2023 and ended on 28 October 2024. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to evaluate relationships among demographic factors, viral load, and inflammatory markers.
Results: Findings revealed that HIV-positive individuals had significantly higher CRP levels (r = 0.140, p = 0.010), indicating persistent inflammation despite ART. D-dimer levels remained high within normal ranges across the sample, suggesting a generally low thrombotic risk, though elevated in a small subset of HIV-positive individuals. It also revealed that CRP levels were notably higher among male patients (r = 0.133, p = 0.014) compared to female patients. The age group with the highest inflammatory markers, such as CRP, were young adults (18–39 years old). Distribution results show the predominant gender being female (n = 211; 76.7%) versus male (n = 64; 23.3%).
Conclusion: This study highlights the need for tailored strategies to manage inflammation and reduce cardiovascular risks in HIV-positive individuals, especially young adults and male patients.
What this study adds: This study provides insight into specific inflammatory markers that are reduced or elevated in people living with HIV. It also assessed how ART influences the immune response in HIV-positive individuals, particularly in terms of inflammation. This can help in developing targeted therapies and monitoring disease progression.
Keywords
Sustainable Development Goal
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