ABSTRACT
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are a major health threat to populations worldwide. For those burdened with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) due to HIV infection, damage to many organs can occur, including the heart. Novel therapies available that combat the retroviral infection keep the disease at an apparent stalemate; however, malnutrition and wasting are becoming central factors in the care of long-term survivors. The function of the immune system is tightly related the nutritional status of the host and is of paramount importance in AIDS patients.
