Resting energy expenditure in HIV/AIDS patients: Development and validation of a predictive equation.

Background: Accurate measurements of resting energy expenditure (REE) are important for determining nutritional needs in HIV patients. Indirect calorimetry (IC) is a noninvasive method that reflects REE but can be costly and is frequently calculated with predictive equations. Research suggests that REE obtained by predictive equations in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) is inaccurate. The aim of the study is to develop and validate a new predictive equation of REE based on a population of PLWH.

Methods: Cross-sectional study including 164 PLWH (82 to develop and 82 to validate the equation). Multiple linear regression was used to determine the relationship between variables and to develop the new predictive equation. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman methods were used to evaluate agreement between the new predictive equation and indirect calorimetry.

Results: A new predictive equation with an accuracy of 67% when compared with IC was developed. This equation included as covariates: fat free mass, antiretroviral therapy status and age.

Conclusion: A new equation to predict energy expenditure in PLWH was developed and validated. This formula can be used to estimate REE if IC is not available.