Acquired protein C and protein S deficiency in HIV-infected patients.

Infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may lead to hemostatic imbalances. Forty-nine consecutive patients with acute opportunistic infections were screened for thrombophilic parameters. A follow-up investigation was performed after 10 +/- 8 weeks in 26 patients. In acutely ill patients, the incidence of protein S deficiency was 67% (33/49) and of protein C deficiency 25% (12/49), while at the follow-up visit the incidences were 54% (14/26) and 8% (2/26), respectively. Protein S and protein C levels increased significantly from initial to follow-up visit (p < 0.05). Lupus anticoagulants were not detected and anticardiolipin IgG antibodies were present in 11.4% (5/44). Three patients presented with deep venous thrombosis on admission; in two, protein S or protein C deficiency was observed. In conclusion, an acquired protein S and protein C deficiency often develop in patients with HIV and acute illness; this may be reversible after treatment for opportunistic infections.