We collected clinical data on 23 HIV-infected children who were fed chronically by gastrostomy tube. There was a trend toward improvement in weight z score with nasogastric tube feedings. Caloric intakes increased progressively with nasogastric and gastrostomy tube feedings. No improvement in height, TSF, AMC, hospital days, or CD4 counts was seen in the follow-up period. Gastrostomy tube supplementation for HIV-infected children can improve weight and fat mass when other oral methods fail.
Weight gain is coincident with greater caloric intakes.
Early nutritional intervention is indicated for HIV-infected children. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1996. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only.