Extrait

Background and study aims The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a type of virus known as a retrovirus. HIV attacks and weakens the immune system, making it more difficult for a sufferer to fight infections. It is a highly contagious disease, through bodily fluids such as blood, semen and vaginal fluids. There is currently no cure for HIV, but there are a range of drug treatments (antiretroviral therapy) that can help people who are HIV positive to lead a long and full life. HIV infection is associated with a high rate of respiratory (breathing) disease despite the use of antiretroviral therapy. As the HIV positive population in the UK ages, long-term lung diseases such as COPD will become increasingly important. A better understanding of the causes of respiratory illness in this population is therefore needed to help find ways to reduce the impact of disease. The aim of this study is to look at the frequency of acute respiratory illness (a sudden illness that affects breathing) in those with HIV who have access to antiretroviral therapy compared to people without HIV. Who can participate? Adults who are HIV positive and those who are HIV negative. What does the study involve? All participants are followed for a period of 12 months. During this time they are asked to complete weekly diaries to assess the development of any acute respiratory illness. When such illnesses occur, participants are asked to attend for review - at these times the severity and duration of these acute respiratory illnesses are measured using breathing tests, blood tests, and questionnaires. In addition, samples are taken from the nose and throat using nasal swabs and lungs which are analysed to find out what has caused the condition in the laboratory. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Participants benefit from receiving the results of their lung function tests, which can also be passed onto their GP. This could help their future care. During the study participants are asked to contact one of the research team if they get any new respiratory symptoms such as coughing, blocked or runny nose, breathlessness or chest pain. If this happens the researchers will then arrange to see the participants again and to take samples. If any micro-organisms that are causing infection are identified at these times then this might help with treatment. There are no significant risks anticipated. The swabs taken from participant's noses and throats and blood testing may cause mild discomfort. In a few cases collecting samples from the chest may cause wheezing. Where is the study run from? Royal Free Hospital (UK) When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? September 2014 to February 2018 Who is funding the study? National Institute for Health Research (UK) Who is the main contact? Dr James Brown [email protected]

Critère d'inclusion

• Acute Respiratory Illness

Liens

• isrctn