FACIAL LIPOATROPHY LITERATURE REVIEW

CIRC has published an informal review of the available literature on how lipodystrophy and facial lipoatrophy affect the quality of life of people living with HIV, this is current as of December 2005. 

Lipodystrophy is the ‘umbrella’ name used to describe body fat changes reported among people taking anti-HIV therapy. Fat loss from the face (facial wasting or lipoatrophy) is one of the components of lipodystrophy. Facial wasting usually occurs together with other changes in body shape as well as an increase in the amount of fat in the blood, however, it can be the only aspect of lipodystrophy that a person experiences.

The exact cause of facial wasting is not known: originally it was thought that protease inhibitors might be the cause, but most doctors now believe that it is caused by nucleoside analogues, particularly d4T and to a lesser extent AZT.

Multiple studies have shown that facial lipoatrophy can erode self-esteem, cause psychological distress, and lead to depression: basically, it can marginalize those affected as well as impact a person’s ability to work and remain financially independent. Treatments that can correct the appearance of those affected are being tested around the world.

The positive effects of treatments and procedures that can repair the effects of facial wasting, are far reaching. Studies assessing psychological parameters of HIV-infected patients with facial wasting (who are undergoing corrective treatment) have shown that after treatment there is an improvement in anxiety and depression scores and in health perception—both mental and transitory health— and emotional status. In other words, an improved appearance, not unpredictably, makes people feel better.

For a detailed copy of the literature review For a list of the references used in the literature review and links to the actual research

For a comparison of the most commonly used facial lipoatrophy procedures For a great Lipoatrophy Resource website