Neurologic abnormalities in human immunodeficiency virus infection

Neurologic abnormalities involving the central and peripheral nervous system are common in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Evidence of central nervous system infection (cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities) occurs early; however, evidence of central and peripheral nervous system dysfunction usually occurs at later stages. Neurologic manifestations may be due to chronic immunosuppression, direct neurotropic effect of HIV, or medication effects. It is important to recognize that brain and spine imaging studies are highly sensitive in detecting abnormal pathologic processes, but these studies have low specificity for establishing a specific pathologic diagnosis.