TB Research

Restoring TB-specific Immunity in Early HIV Infection-the Dual Promise of Early Antiretroviral and TB Preventive Treatment.

Patrick K Moonan, Stephen O Mathew, Jerry W Simecka, Stephen E Weis

The Journal of infectious diseases · 2026-05

Abstract

Early HIV infection disrupts TB-specific immunity, raising TB risk before CD4 decline. Early ART may help but cannot fully restore function, making tuberculosis preventive treatment indispensable-potentially lifelong-to close immunologic gaps and reduce HIV-associated TB morbidity and mortality.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • HIV Infections
  • Tuberculosis
  • Antitubercular Agents
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents
  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • Coinfection