HIV and malaria co-infection: interactions and consequences of chemotherapy

Trends Parasitol. 2008 Jun;24(6):264-71. doi: 10.1016/j.pt.2008.03.008. Epub 2008 May 2.

Abstract

The global epidemiology of HIV/AIDS and malaria overlap because a significant number of HIV-infected individuals live in regions with different levels of malaria transmission. Although the consequences of co-infection with HIV and malaria parasites are not fully understood, available evidence suggests that the infections act synergistically and together result in worse outcomes. The importance of understanding chemotherapeutic interactions during malaria and HIV co-infection is now being recognized. We know that some antimalarial drugs have weak antiretroviral effects; however, recent studies have also demonstrated that certain antiretroviral agents can inhibit malaria-parasite growth. Here, we discuss recent findings on the impact of HIV/AIDS and malaria co-infection and the possible roles of chemotherapy in improving the treatment of these diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antimalarials / therapeutic use*
  • Comorbidity
  • Drug Design
  • Drug Interactions*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology*
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Malaria / drug therapy
  • Malaria / epidemiology*
  • Malaria / transmission

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • Antimalarials