ABSTRACT
We report the case of an asthmatic man with HIV infection who was initially diagnosed with HIV treatment-associated lipodystrophy. Further investigations showed he had Cushing's syndrome secondary to 1600 microg of budesonide dry powder inhaler. Cushing's syndrome has not been reported previously on this normal dose of inhaled budesonide.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Cortex Hormones/adverse effects , Budesonide/adverse effects , Cushing Syndrome/chemically induced , HIV Infections/drug therapy , Lipodystrophy/diagnosis , Administration, Inhalation , Adrenal Cortex Hormones/administration & dosage , Budesonide/administration & dosage , Cushing Syndrome/epidemiology , Diagnosis, Differential , HIV Infections/complications , Humans , Lipodystrophy/etiology , Male , Middle AgedABSTRACT
Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency is associated with pulmonary emphysema and liver cirrhosis. The pathogenesis and treatment is reviewed with particular emphasis on gene therapy for emphysema. The technology of gene transfer using viruses and liposomes is developing fast and animal experiments have confirmed the feasibility of gene therapy for alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD). So far only subtherapeutic levels of protein have been produced but human trials are starting and progress can be expected.
