Weight: Body energy stores and weight are maintained by asymptomatic patients. Weight loss usually precedes the diagnosis of AIDS. The weight loss becomes more severe with disease progression. Cachexia is a common symptom in AIDS.
Various factors contribute to malnutrition in HIV infection. Anorexia occurs due to the medications administered, the depression and emotional stress the patient undergoes and the involvement of the Central Nervous System.
Decreased intake of food occurs due to the oral and esophageal lesions which are present and as well as the side effects of treatment.
Diarrhoea and malabsorption also lead to poor nutritional status. Alternations in intermediary metabolism during AIDS can also contribute to malnutrition.
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