Ventricular functions in children with human immunodeficiency virus infection after ACE-inhibitors

Nine pediatric symptomatic patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus with elevated pulmonary arterial pressure (MPA pressure) and ejection fraction (EF); and with fractional shortening, (FS) mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (MVCfc) and left ventricular peak systolic wall stress (PS) were prospectively evaluated using 2-dimensional and M-mode serial echocardiography and Doppler cardiography after administration of an ACE inhibitor (Inhibace 0.025 mg/kg/D orally) for 12 weeks. The MPA pressure was not decreased, however the MVCfc and PS improved significantly (p < 0.05). Further, long term evaluation is required to determine its effect in preventing dilated cardiomyopathy and elevated mean pulmonary pressure.