Relation between ArV and birth Defects

Two components are considered in deciding the adverse effect on fetal development in pregnant mother with HIV infection. One, effect of HIV infection on fetus and second, effect of antiretroviral treatment (ARV). The major benefit of antiretroviral treatment (ARV) during pregnancy is prevention of mother to child transmission (MTCT) of HIV infection. The combination of zidovudine and lamivudine and lopinavir/ritonavir is one of the most used ART regimens for prevention of mother-to-child-transmission. At the same time there are concern related to its effect on adverse outcome of birth outcome. There is no clear supporting data but results shows conflicting Conclusion on effect of antiretroviral treatment (ARV).

hospital based prospective study was carried out at tertiary care centre, Krishna Hospital, Karad. Inclusive criteria was, Mothers who are diagnosed to have congenital birth defected fetus through antenatal examinations, delivered baby with diagnoses of congenital malformation, congenital malformed admitted neonates at Tertiary care hospital or came for reference services.

Total 75136 babies were observed in pediatric outpatient department, 4092 babies in pediatric ward and 774 patients in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Total, 283 mothers were identified with birth defect. Among these, only 3 (1.1%) mothers gave information that they used ARV during pregnancy.

At the moment, few studies are available to determine the role of these drugs alone or associated with other ART in inducing birth defects³¹. Further in depth research is required in this aspect.