HLA-B*57:01 genotype and Abacavir therapy: first report from genomic lab in AORN dei Colli Naples -Italy

Abstract

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is an infectious disease caused by the HIV virus (human immunodeficiency virus). The core of HIV treatment is antiretroviral therapy (ART). Abacavir, an antiretroviral drug used to treat HIV infections, is widely used in the treatment of HIV-supported infections. The active ingredient of the drug is not able to completely eradicate the infection, leading to a patient’s recovery, but it reduces the amount of virus in the body, keeping it at low levels. Pharmacogenetic tests are used in clinical practice to optimize the choice of medication or clinical management of the patient. Before starting treatment, it is necessary to perform a genetic exam to assess the presence of the HLA allele B57:01. Patients with the HLA B57:01 allele are therefore at increased risk of hypersensitivity to Abacavir. An adverse effect of abacavir is a hypersensitivity reaction, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening, and may limit treatment with the drug. The abacavir-induced hypersensitivity reaction was therefore associated with the presence of the class I allele of the major histocompatibility complex HLA-B*5701. Screening patients for HLA-B*57:01 before starting abacavir therapy reduces the incidence of hypersensitivity reactions. The study we carried out aims to evaluate the presence of the HLAB57:01 allele in the HIV-positive population present in our territory.