Background:

The colostrum of HIV-infected mothers contains a high number of HIV copies and is considered highly infectious. Furthermore it contains large numbers of macro- phage and other mononuclear cells that are known to incorporate virus. While prevention protocols in Western countries suggest the interruption of breast feeding; at least for the first few months of life; this practice is not advisable in developing countries.

Methodology:

The aim of this study was to determine the HIV load and the concentrations of IL-18; IL-16; IL-12; TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2 in the colostrum of HIV-infected mothers living in Burkina Faso. The women all received nevirapine prophylaxis during labour.

Results:

The viral load in the colostrum decreased rapidly during the first three days following delivery; while the concentration of IL-18 and IL-16 increased in the same period. IL-12; TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2 did not show significant variations in the first three days after delivery.

Conclusions:

Since the viral load decreases in the colostrum of nevirapine-treated expectant mothers; our data suggest single dose nevirapine combined with interruption of early feeding may have potential as a way to reduce the risk of MTCT