Brain Pathology in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Abstract

Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 infected patients and commonly are associated with immunosuppression and the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Three general categories of diseases include: direct HIV encephalitis with HIV-associated dementia as its clinical counterpart; opportunistic infections and lymphoma; and metabolic or toxic disorders relating to systemic diseases or therapeutic interventions. Combined antiretroviral therapies and prophylactic treatment for opportunistic infections have delayed the onset of CNS disease and, in some infections, have reduced their incidences.