Neuropsychiatric aspects of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection with central nervous system (CNS) involvement causes a variety of psychiatric complications among a significant proportion of infected individuals. A cure for the fully developed AIDS related to HIV infection remains elusive, and HIV/AIDS is a leading cause of death among adults between the ages of 25 and 44. Life expectancy, however, has gradually increased over the years, resulting in a concern for a potential increase in the incidence of secondary psychiatric manifestations. Knowledge of the neuropathology of HIV-CNS dysfunction and familiarity with its clinical presentation can aid clinicians in a determination of the appropriate therapy inclusive of psychiatric care that may be useful for a specific individual in their treatment.