Retroviruses conference reassuring on new treatments, viral targets, research

AIDS Treatment News, March 8, 2002

The recent Retroviruses conference in Seattle reported more progress in AIDS research than perhaps any conference in the last few years. But the potential new drugs and research findings are still in early stages, and include some contradictory or confusing results. Experimental treatments may look good in early human tests but may or may not prove safe and effective for long-term use.

Here is an overview on lipoatrophy -- fat wasting -- a problem our readers have asked about. In future issues we expect to cover new drugs, treatment interruption, other lipodystrophy and drug side effects, and many other topics.

Note: the '-M', '-T', or '-W' in the abstract numbers in this conference just means that the presentation was a poster on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. 'LB' in the abstract name means Late Breaker -- new research results that could not be submitted by the regular deadline but were considered important enough to be accepted anyway.

Other Retroviruses Conference Information

A one-hour telephone recording of an expert summary, organized by HIVandHepatitis.com, is available toll-free at 800-428-6051; when asked for an ID number, enter 227184 for this recording. You will be asked for your name, affiliation, and telephone number. This is a formality; you can say anything, even that you don't want to give the information, and the process will still go forward.

In some cities local AIDS service organizations are presenting programs with expert speakers who review conference highlights. In New York, for example, the National AIDS Treatment Advocacy Project will have a one-day update Saturday April 6, on the Retroviruses conference and on HIV/Hepatitis C co-infection. Advance registration is required due to building security; to register, call NATAP during business hours at either 888-26-NATAP, or 212-219-0106. For other programs, check with service organizations in your area.

For in-depth information, see "Retroviruses Conference Web Coverage" in this issue.