An analysis of factors associated with HIV-related peripheral neuropathy

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been associated with debilitating peripheral neuropathy. Ninety-four consecutive patients were surveyed in an endeavor to ascertain risk factors for neuropathy. After adjusting for possible confounding, no factor was significant, but a history of Mycobacterium avium infection had borderline significance (p=0.051) and presumed acquisition of HIV by male-to-male sexual relations produced marginal significance (p=0.089). Of 28 predominantly hemophiliac transfusion- related HIV-infected patients none had peripheral neuropathy. These findings suggest further avenues of research into the causes of HIV-related peripheral neuropathy including the possibility of a relationship between cytokine levels, Mycobacterium avium complex and neuropathy.