The co-administration of antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and anticancer drugs in oncologic patients HIV-positive, may be related with an increased risk of toxicity resulting to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions mediated by drug-metabolizing enzymes or transporters leading to altered drug exposure.

Here, we review the late findings on the most appropriate gene variants related to the toxicity in patients receiving HAART and chemotherapy. The purpose of this review is to summarize the existing data on the impact of individual pharmacogenomic profile in order to optimize the clinical management of cancer patients with HIV/AIDS.

Several criteria has been used to select a genotyping panel tests, including cytochrome P (CYP) 450 substrates. Results of allelic status from several validated polymorphism assays, allow the stratification of the patients who are most likely to respond to combined treatments. The usefulness and costs of the methods used to detect these polymorphisms will be also taken in consideration.

Genotyping of patients for multidrug response is a promising strategy for cancer treatment and personalized therapy in HIV-patients. Based on the individual genetic profiles, the oncologist will have a new features to make personalized treatment decisions for their patients in order to maximize benefit and minimize toxicity.