Zinc and selenium indicators and its relation with immunological and metabolic parameters in male patients with HIV

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Micronutrient deficiencies are common among people living with HIV (PLWHIV). The clinical and immunological consequences of micronutrient deficiencies have been poorly explored in the context of HIV infection. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of zinc and selenium deficiency (dietary intake and serum concentrations) and analyze their associations with absolute CD4+ T-cells counts, inflammation markers and metabolic disorders in a cohort of antiretroviral-experienced HIV-infected subjects. MATERIAL AND METHODS Zinc and selenium intakes of 124 HIV-infected men were estimated using 3-day food records. In a sub-cohort of 45 subjects, serum zinc and selenium concentrations and pro-inflammatory cytokines were determined. Body composition, bone mineral density (BMD), CD4+ T-cells counts, lipid profile, glucose and blood pressure were determined and were associated with zinc and selenium dietary intake and serum concentrations. RESULTS Fifty-eight percent (%) and 8.0% of PLWHIV had suboptimal intake of zinc and selenium, respectively. Serum deficiencies for zinc and selenium were 23.9% and 65.9%, respectively. Zinc and selenium intake were correlated with increased muscle mass. Selenium intake was associated with increased BMD of the lumbar region. An inverse correlation between serum selenium concentration and several pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) was found. CONCLUSION Suboptimal zinc and selenium intake and serum concentration deficiencies are highly prevalent in treated HIV+ individuals and are associated with body composition, BMD and inflammation. Clinical trials should be designed to explore the effect of zinc and selenium supplementation on metabolic, inflammatory and immunological parameters on the HIV+ population.