Cortisol and DHEA are steroid hormones produced in the adrenal glands. They help regulate the body's stress response, thyroid function, metabolism, and immune function. The progression of HIV infection is marked by important changes in adrenal hormone production. Cortisol levels increase, while DHEA, an androgen linked to improved mood, energy, and anti-cancer effects, decreases.1 This has led researchers to surmise that cortisol excess and/or DHEA deficiency may be the primary basis for the suppressed immune response occurring in AIDS.2,3

One leading research expert notes that high cortisol levels eventually wear down the resistance of the immune system and are actually capable of triggering the infections and symptoms characteristic of AIDS.4 What's more, protease-inhibitors used to treat AIDS patients can further increase the secretion of cortisol, causing disfiguring fat deposits in the back ("buffalo hump") and stomach as well as diabetes.5 A complete circadian analysis of cortisol over a 24-hour period can reveal important "peaks" in cortisol activity, when the immune system is vulnerable to dangerous infections and treatment side effects.

Experimental evidence shows that DHEA not only protects against certain viral infections, it serves as an independent predictor of AIDS progression in HIV infected men.6,7 Moreover, it appears that DHEA levels may affect the development and remission of Kaposi's sarcoma--which is often symptomatic of advanced AIDS.8

The Adrenocortex Stress Profile is a timed, noninvasive saliva test that measures the circadian secretion pattern of cortisol along with circulating level of DHEA. Results provide a strong foundation for addressing adrenal imbalances that may be influencing the progression of AIDS.

References:

1 Clerici M, Trabattoni D, Piconi S, Fusi ML, Ruzzante S, Clerici C, Villa M. A possible role for the
cortisol/Anticortisols imbalance in the progression of human immunodeficiency virus. Psychoneuroendocrinology 1997;22 Suppl 1:S27-S31.

2 Christeff N, Gherbi N, Mammes O, Dalle MT, Gharakhanian S, Lortholoary O, Melchior JC, Nunez EA. Serum cortisol and DHEA concentrations during HIV infection. Psychoneuroendocrinology 1997;22 Suppl 1:S11-S18.

3 Corley PA. HIV and the cortisol connection: a feasible concept of the process of AIDS. Med Hypotheses 1995;44(6):483-9.

4 Sapse AT. Cortisol, high cortisol diseases and anti-cortisol therapy. Psychoneuroendocrinology
1997;22 Suppl 1:S3-10.

5 Sapse AT. Fifth Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections. Las Vegas, February 2-5
1998.

6 Jacobson MA, Fusaro RE, Galmarini M, Lang W Decreased serum dehydroepiandrosterone is
associated with an increased progression of human immunodeficiency virus infection in men with CD4 cell
counts of 200-499. J Infect Dis 1991;164(5):864-868.

7 Mulder JW, Frissen PH, Krijnen P, Endert E, de Wolf F, Goudsmit J, Masterson JG, Lange JM.
Dehydroepiandrosterone as a predictor for progression to AIDS in asymptomatic human immunodeficiency
virus-infected men. J Infect Dis 1992;165(3):413-418.

8 Christeff N, Gharakhanian S, Thobie N, Wirbel E, Dalle MT, Costagliola D, Nunez EA, Rozenbaum W. J Clin Pathol 1997;50(4):341-45.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealth institute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.