Anxiety in patients with cancer and human immunodeficiency virus

Physicians who treat patients with cancer or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections frequently encounter the psychological and physical manifestations of anxiety in these populations. This chapter provides a review of the prevalence of anxiety disorders in cancer and HIV patients. The problems in assessment and diagnosis of anxiety in these patients are discussed, and a literature review of the types of anxiety disorders commonly identified in the context of cancer and HIV/AIDS is presented. Finally, the treatment of anxiety in cancer and HIV patients utilizing both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic modalities is reviewed.