Psychiatric issues in the management of patients with HIV infection

G J Treisman1, A F Angelino, H E Hutton

  • 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA. glenn@jhmi.edu

JAMA
|December 12, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Psychiatric disorders are common in people with HIV and can hinder medical care. A multidisciplinary approach improves treatment for these complex cases in HIV clinics.

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • An estimated 1 million individuals in the U.S. are living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
  • Psychiatric disorders frequently co-occur with HIV infection.
  • These mental health conditions can impede effective medical care, patient-clinician communication, and adherence to treatment regimens.

Observation:

  • A complex case at The Johns Hopkins Hospital involved an HIV-positive patient with multiple psychiatric conditions.
  • The patient's psychiatric comorbidities presented significant challenges to their overall health management.
  • This case highlights a common scenario within HIV clinic populations.

Findings:

  • Collaborative treatment by a multidisciplinary team, integrating medical and mental health professionals, was employed.
  • A structured diagnostic and treatment strategy was developed for the patient.
  • The case illustrates the practical application of integrated care models.

Implications:

  • Comprehensive evaluation and integrated, multidisciplinary care are crucial for managing HIV patients with psychiatric comorbidities.
  • A proactive and optimistic therapeutic approach is essential for successful patient outcomes.
  • Addressing mental health barriers can optimize medical care and adherence in the HIV-positive population.

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