Problem

Effects of HIV infection on ovarian function and aging are unclear.

Method of study

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels were analyzed in 2621 HIV-infected and 941 uninfected participants using left-censored longitudinal models.

Results

Age-adjusted AMH levels were 16% lower in women with undetectable viraemia and 26% lower in detectable viraemia, relative to uninfected women. Current CD4 count associated with higher AMH in both HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women. After controlling for current and nadir CD4, AMH was ~15% higher in HIV-infected relative to uninfected women, regardless of HIV viraemia. Gravidity, amenorrhea, and nadir total lymphocyte counts associated with higher AMH; hormonal contraceptive use and past weight loss associated with lower AMH.

Conclusions

CD4 +  lymphocyte counts were associated with AMH in both HIV-infected and uninfected women. After adjustment for CD4 counts and age, HIV infection was associated with higher AMH. CD4 T cells and cellular activation may influence ovarian granulosa cell function.