Therapy to Elevate CD4 Counts in HIV-1 Disease

For more than 20 years, alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor therapy has been the standard treatment for patients who have inherited alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor deficiency. Adult patients with this condition eventually develop emphysema. Most HIV-1 patients who have low viral load also have alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor deficiency. The number of CD4 cells in blood increases when alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor increases. Patients will be asked to participate in a pilot study to see whether the use of Zemaira® (alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor) can increase blood levels of alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor and consequently increase CD4 counts.