Human immunodeficiency virus is a chronic infection that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome if untreated. It isn’t known why people with HIV are diagnosed with PAH more frequently than people who don’t have HIV. Studies show that certain factors might contribute to the increased risk, such as aging, HIV-related inflammation and viral proteins.  

Unlike most viruses, HIV doesn’t completely leave the body. It attacks cells in the immune system that help fight infections, specifically T cells (a type of lymphocyte or white blood cell, also called CD4 cells). If HIV is untreated, it decreases the number of T cells in the body, making HIV-positive people more susceptible to developing infections and infection-related cancers.  

Effective treatments, specifically antiretroviral therapy, have extended and improved the lives of people living with HIV. The therapies also have reduced the risk of HIV-positive people passing the virus to others. It’s important to see a physician who specializes in treating PH and can work closely with your HIV physician on your treatment plan.  

Today, with early detection and treatment, people with HIV can live nearly as long as those without the virus. About 1.2 million people live with HIV in the U.S., where 35,000-40,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. 

HIV can lead to Group 1 PH or pulmonary arterial hypertension. About one of every 200 people with HIV has PAH.  

PH symptoms can include:  

  • Shortness of breath with activity. 
  • Increased fatigue.  
  • Swelling of the ankles, legs or abdomen. 
  • Chest discomfort or pain. 
  • Light-headedness and fainting.  

People with HIV should tell their health care teams about new symptoms or changes in their health. If doctors suspect PH, the patient should be evaluated by an experienced PH-treating clinician, such as a specialist at a Pulmonary Hypertension Association-accredited PH Care Center.  

Tests to diagnose PH

Tests that diagnose PH may be different from tests you’ve encountered before. Doctors may use any of the following to diagnose PH: 

  • Echocardiogram 
  • Pulmonary function tests 
  • Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan 
  • Natriuretic peptide tests 
  • Right heart catheterization 

In addition to directly measuring pressures in the heart and lungs, a right heart catheterization can determine whether patients have problems with a stiff left side of the heart. Left heart disease also can cause PH. In those cases, doctors refer patients to a cardiologist to treat the heart disease. 

Diagnosing PH

Treatment options  

Typically, doctors can prescribe PAH specific therapies for HIV-associated PAH. It’s important to see a physician who specializes in treating PH and can work closely with your HIV physician on your treatment plan.   Some HIV drugs affect PH-targeted therapies and need to be carefully managed. Patients may want to consult with their doctors about clinical trials for people with HIV and PAH.

  • Targeted Therapies for Pulmonary Hypertension

    Targeted medications for pulmonary hypertension are the result of years of research and development, including clinical trials with patients. These treatments work by addressing chemical imbalances in the lungs.

    Diagnosis & treatment

Download or order a brochure

Information on PH and HIV is one of a series of PH& brochures available to download as a PDF or to order as a printed brochure. 

PH & HIV