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A first-line fixed-dose combination ART regimen containing Efavirenz/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir exhibits beneficial
effects on retinal microvascular calibre in a South African HIV-infected study population.

F. Everson , P. De Boever , T.S. Nawrot , N. Goswami , I. Webster , S. Charania , F. Kamau , B. Kgokane , Y. Dinnie , H. Strijdom .
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a Centre for Cardio-metabolic Research in Africa, Division of Medical Physiology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa. Centre of Excellence Microbial Systems Technology, University of Antwerp,
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Belgium. Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Belgium. Otto Loewi Research Centre of Vascular Biology, Immunity and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
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Background: The retinal microvasculature is known to be a Objective: This study aimed to Methods: HIV-free and HIV-infected participants receiving ART (Efavirenz 600mg, Emtricitabine 200mg, and Tenofovir
surrogate marker of vascular endothelial function and investigate the effects of a fixed-dose 300mg) were recruited from health clinics in Cape Town. Data was collected via health questionnaires and anthropometric and
atherosclerosis (arteriolar/venular widening or narrowing); combination ART regimen containing blood pressure measurements were taken. Biochemical analyses were performed by the national health laboratories. Retinal
however, the pro-atherosclerotic effects of HIV and Efavirenz/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir on images were captured, and microvascular calibres (central retinal arteriolar equivalent (CRAE) and central retinal venular
antiretroviral therapy (ART) in terms in retinal vessel calibre retinal microvascular calibres in a South equivalent (CRVE)) determined. Linear stepwise regression analyses were performed to determine independent associations.
remain unclear in the South African population African HIV-infected study population. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Demographic, HIV and ART characteristics Results Results: Retinal Imaging

Conclusion: HIV-infected participants receiving a fixed-dose combination ART containing Efavirenz/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir was associated with reduced CRVE

(characteristic of an inti-inflammatory effect) and increased CRAE/CRVE ratios (previously associated with a reduced risk for mortality in HIV/AIDS).