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Cerebral artery aneurysms in children infected with human immunodeficiency virus
R N Husson1, R Saini, L L Lewis
1Pediatric Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892.
Insights
Two children with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection developed progressive, silent brain aneurysms. These aneurysms in major cerebral arteries grew significantly without early symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Antiretroviral treatment (ART) protocols are standard care for pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
- Brain imaging studies are increasingly utilized to monitor neurological complications in children with HIV.
Observation:
- A cohort of over 250 children receiving ART underwent regular brain imaging.
- Two cases of progressive aneurysms in major cerebral arteries were identified in children with advanced HIV.
Findings:
- The aneurysms occurred and progressed despite ART.
- These vascular lesions remained clinically silent initially, even with significant dilation.
Implications:
- This highlights a potential, previously undocumented neurological complication of advanced HIV in children.
- Increased vigilance and advanced neuroimaging may be warranted for pediatric HIV patients.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and long-term outcomes of HIV-associated cerebral aneurysms.
Abstract:
More than 250 children treated at our institution on antiretroviral treatment protocols have been monitored with brain imaging studies. We documented the occurrence and progression of aneurysms of major cerebral arteries in two children with advanced human immunodeficiency virus infection. In both cases these lesions remained clinically silent initially, despite progression to marked dilation.