Research Trends in HIV-Associated Nephropathy (HIVAN) from 2015 to 2025: A Bibliometric Analysis Using CiteSpace

Background: In recent years, HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) has significantly impacted the compliance, quality of life, and treatment outcomes for patients with AIDS. This study employs CiteSpace bibliometric analysis to predict emerging topics and research trends, thereby offering clear scientific navigation and strategic recommendations for HIVAN research. Methods: We retrieved publications related to HIVAN from the Web of Science Core Collection covering the period from 2015 to 2025. Utilizing CiteSpace, we analyzed the co-occurrence network, clustering,and timeline of research trends in this field to illustrate the knowledge evolution surrounding HIVAN. Results: A total of 1,470 publications were included from 2015 to 2025. The United States maintained its dominant position in medical research, while countries such as the United Kingdom, South Africa, France, and China emerged as key contributors in the field. Prominent institutions, including the University of California system, Johns Hopkins University, and University of the London, were central to HIVAN research. Scholars such as Estrella, Michelle M. Shlipak, Michael G. and Kopp, Jeffrey B exhibited substantial academic output and garnered considerable citation attention. Leading journals, including “Clinical Infectious Diseases”, “PLOS ONE” and “AIDS” served as premier venues for review articles, providing essential platforms and establishing foundations for ongoing research. The research activity and academic impact of HIVAN within the sub-discipline of nephrology currently represent prominent areas of inquiry. Conclusion: This study examined the knowledge network structure of HIVAN from 2015 to 2025 examined bibliometric analysis. Future research should focus on enhancing international collaboration, particularly in resource limited regions, to investigate various intervention strategies aimed at improving compliance, quality of life, and treatment outcomes for HIVAN patients. Keywords: HIVAN, PLWH, CKD, ART, CiteSpace, Bibliometrics, Research trends