Bariatric surgery in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus and type 2 diabetes: a case series

BACKGROUND: The efficacy and safety of bariatric surgery have not been fully elucidated in patients affected with human immunodeficiency virus. Although adjustable gastric banding and sleeve gastrectomy are starting to be used in patients with human immunodeficiency virus, there are limited descriptions of the outcomes of type 2 diabetes mellitus in individuals who are human immunodeficiency virus positive and undergoing these procedures. CASE PRESENTATION: We have evaluated retrospectively three patients who underwent adjustable gastric banding or sleeve gastrectomy, the effect in weight reduction and glycemic control as well as its impact on human immunodeficiency virus management. Case 1 (adjustable gastric banding), a 58-year-old Caucasian male, achieved 19% total weight loss, Case 2, a 33-year-old Caucasian male (sleeve gastrectomy) lost 25%, and Case 3, a 48-year-old Caucasian female (sleeve gastrectomy), lost 14% postoperation. In terms of type 2 diabetes mellitus, Case 2 achieved complete remission according to American Diabetes Association criteria, while Case 1 would also have achieved remission were it not for the continuation of metformin postoperatively. Insulin requirements and pill burden were markedly reduced in Case 3 after sleeve gastrectomy, although lack of remission was predictable given the longevity of type 2 diabetes mellitus and preoperative insulin dosage. In all three cases, human immunodeficiency virus status did not appear to be affected by the bariatric surgery which was supported by the postoperative stable CD4 count and undetectable viral load. CONCLUSIONS: Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective treatment modality in patients who are human immunodeficiency virus positive with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus.