Prolonged Post-Treatment Virologic Control and Complete Seroreversion after Advanced HIV-1 Infection
Abstract Background Possible human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 clearance has been rarely reported. Here we describe a unique case of an HIV-positive, combination antiretroviral therapy (cART)-experienced woman with prior acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) who has not experienced viral rebound for over 12 years since discontinuing cART. Methods Leukapheresis, colonoscopy, and lymph node excision were performed for detailed examination of virologic (including HIV reservoir) and immunologic features. Comparisons were made with chronically infected patients and healthy controls. Results No HIV-specific antibodies were detected in serum. Plasma HIV RNA levels were <0.2 copies/mL and, except for low-frequency HIV DNA + cells in lymph node tissue (1 copy/3 x 10 6 cells), HIV antigen could not be detected by quantitative virus outgrowth (<0.0025 infectious units/10 6 CD4 + T cells) or by most measurements of HIV RNA or DNA in blood, lymph node or gut-associated mononuclear cells. HIV-specific T-cell responses were detectable, but low. Brain imaging revealed a prior biopsy site and persistent white matter disease since 1996. HIV DNA + cells in the 1996 brain biopsy specimen confirmed her identity and initial HIV diagnosis. Conclusions This represents the first report of complete seroreversion, prolonged post-treatment virus suppression, a profoundly small HIV reservoir and persistent HIV-specific T cells in an adult with prior AIDS.