HIV medicine
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Patients starting highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) may have a suboptimal CD4 increase despite rapid virological suppression. The frequency and the significance for patient care of this discordant response are uncertain. This study was designed to determine the incidence of a discordant response at two time-points, soon after 6 months and at 12 months, and to determine the relationship with clinical outcomes. ⋯ Discordant responders have a worse outcome, but assessment at 12 months may be preferred, given the number of 'slow' responders. Management strategies to improve outcomes for discordant responders need to be investigated.