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Humanized NOG Mice for Intravaginal HIV Exposure and Treatment of HIV Infection
Published on: January 31, 2020
Evaluation and treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus-1--exposed infant
Susan M King, ,
Insights
Pediatricians play a crucial role in preventing mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). They identify exposed infants, provide antiretroviral prophylaxis, and offer essential care and support to families.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Perinatal human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) transmission rates can be reduced to 2% or less in developed countries with available maternal and infant care.
- Pediatricians are integral to preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV-1.
Framework:
- The pediatrician's role encompasses identifying HIV-exposed infants whose mothers' HIV status was undiagnosed prenatally.
- Prescribing antiretroviral prophylaxis to infants is critical for reducing HIV-1 acquisition risk.
- Promoting the avoidance of HIV-1 transmission through human milk is a key preventive strategy.
Implementation:
- Pediatricians monitor HIV-exposed infants for early HIV-1 infection status determination.
- Monitoring for short- and long-term toxicities associated with antiretroviral exposure is vital.
- Providing chemoprophylaxis for Pneumocystis pneumonia is a standard care component.
- Offering counseling and support to families living with HIV-1 infection is integral to care.
Implications:
- Effective pediatrician involvement significantly lowers the incidence of perinatal HIV-1 infection.
- Comprehensive care ensures better health outcomes for HIV-exposed and infected infants.
- Support for families enhances adherence to treatment and reduces transmission risks.
Abstract:
In developed countries, care and treatment are available for pregnant women and infants that can decrease the rate of perinatal human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection to 2% or less. The pediatrician has a key role in prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV-1 by identifying HIV-exposed infants whose mothers' HIV infection was not diagnosed before delivery, prescribing antiretroviral prophylaxis for these infants to decrease the risk of acquiring HIV-1 infection, and promoting avoidance of HIV-1 transmission through human milk. In addition, the pediatrician can provide care for HIV-exposed infants by monitoring them for early determination of HIV-1 infection status and for possible short- and long-term toxicities of antiretroviral exposure, providing chemoprophylaxis for Pneumocystis pneumonia, and supporting families living with HIV-1 infection by providing counseling to parents or caregivers.
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