Persistent RNA SARS-CoV-2 Detection in a HIV-Infected Patient

The aim of this paper is to present a case of COVID-19 in a newly diagnosed HIV-infected, severely immunodepressed patient with a long persistence of positive RT-PCR for RNA SARS-CoV-2. Indirect data suggests that viable virus persisted for a long time in the absence of an adequate defense of the host. Improved immunity after starting antiretroviral treatment was not associated with an increased inflammatory reaction as regarding the infection due to the coronavirus and, apparently, was the main factor to control the infection. Remdesivir used to combat the SARS-CoV-2 infection had no immediate effect on the recorded cycle-threshold.

Automated summary

The aim of this paper is to report a case of a newly diagnosed HIV-infected patient with severe immunosuppression who also contracted COVID-19 and had a long duration of positive RT-PCR results for RNA SARS-CoV-2. Indirect evidence suggests that viable virus persisted for a prolonged period in the absence of sufficient host defenses. Improvements in immune function following antiretroviral treatment did not result in an increased inflammatory response to the coronavirus infection and appeared to be the main factor in controlling the infection. Remdesivir, used to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection, did not have an immediate effect on the recorded cycle-threshold.