Browse Answers

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that affects the immune system. In some individuals infected with HIV, it can present with musculoskeletal or rheumatic diseases, ranging from fibromyalgia, HIV-related arthritis, vasculitis or psoriatic arthritis. For most of these, treatment of HIV will also effectively treat the arthritis too.

Jackie from Albuquerque asks: I am worried I may have been exposed to HIV. I also have rheumatoid arthritis and am on a biologic. I have tested negative for HIV, but could my biologic be interfering with the results?

There are a number of different tests for HIV. Some could be impacted by a biologic in early infection, although data is not clear. To be sure, it is best to discuss this with your physician and rheumatologist. Conversely, it is important to be aware that being on a biologic can increase your risk of a more active HIV infection.