The search for cofactors in AIDS, including an analysis of the association of nitrite inhalant abuse and Kaposi's sarcoma.

The identification of cofactors in AIDS is a challenging scientific task. If successful, identifying cofactors could prove valuable in understanding the pathogenesis of HIV infection and AIDS and in the development of strategies to prolong survival and/or prevent complications in HIV-infected individuals. There is sufficient evidence to suggest the existence of a cofactor in KS in AIDS. Nitrite inhalants remain a leading candidate to be the KS cofactor. Until more is known to document or refute this specific virus-drug interaction hypothesis in the pathogenesis of KS in AIDS, clinicians should encourage their patients to avoid use of nitrite inhalants. This article was prepared by a Federal Government employee as part of official duties; therefore, the material is in the public domain and may be reproduced or copied without permission.