Interleukin-2 for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus infection.

摘要

Notwithstanding the significant impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated morbidity and mortality, HAART-induced immune restitution is not complete. The potential utility of interleukin (IL)-2 to augment immune function has been extensively evaluated. Intravenous or subcutaneous IL-2 has been conclusively shown to induce significant increases in CD4 cell counts in HIV-infected patients, in particular when given concomitantly with HAART. Large randomized clinical trials are underway to investigate whether these CD4 cell increments will result in tangible clinical benefits.