Question | Discussion | References | CME Credit

Case 2: Antiretroviral Regimens

Author: David H. Spach, MD

Case last updated: April 24, 2008

A 36-year-old woman has recently been diagnosed with HIV infection. Her initial laboratory studies show a CD4 count of 100 cells/mm3 and HIV RNA of 87,500 copies/ml. Repeat laboratory studies performed one month later show similar results. She has not had any HIV-related complications history. Her physical examination is normal. She is very interested in starting antiretroviral therapy. Two years prior she had a hysterectomy for severe uterine bleeding caused by large uterine fibroids.

According to the January 2008 DHHS Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents, which of the following statements is TRUE regarding initial antiretroviral therapy?

A The regimen zidovudine plus lamivudine (Combivir) plus nelfinavir (Viracept) is considered a preferred regimen.
B The regimen tenofovir DF (Viread) plus lamivudine (Epivir) plus efavirenz (Sustiva) is considered a preferred regimen.
C The combination of abacavir (Ziagen) plus tenofovir DF (Viread) plus lamivudine (Epivir) is considered an alternative regimen.
D The regimen stavudine (Zerit) plus lamivudine (Epivir) plus lopinavir-ritonavir (Kaletra) is considered a preferred regimen.