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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
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Ex Vivo Infection of Human Lymphoid Tissue and Female Genital Mucosa with Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 and Histoculture
Published on: October 12, 2018
Human immunodeficiency virus infection and pregnancy
Haritini Petropoulou1, Alexander J Stratigos, Andreas D Katsambas
1Department of Dermatology, Andreas Sygros Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, University of Athens School of Medicine, Kesariani 161 21, Athens, Greece.
Clinics in Dermatology
|November 23, 2006
Summary
Preventing mother-to-child human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission involves reducing the mother's viral load, considering cesarean delivery, and avoiding breastfeeding. Antiretroviral therapy efficacy must be weighed against potential fetal toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a significant global health concern, particularly impacting women of childbearing age.
- Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV is a primary route of pediatric infection, occurring during pregnancy, labor, or breastfeeding.
- Understanding MTCT is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review factors influencing HIV transmission from mother to child.
- To discuss diagnostic and resistance testing in the context of HIV MTCT.
- To outline strategies for preventing HIV MTCT, including delivery mode, infant feeding, and antiretroviral therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on HIV transmission dynamics.
- Analysis of diagnostic and resistance testing methodologies.
- Evaluation of prevention strategies for HIV MTCT.
Main Results:
- Reducing maternal viral load significantly decreases infant infection risk.
- Elective cesarean delivery and avoidance of breastfeeding are key preventive measures.
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is effective but requires balancing efficacy with potential embryonic/fetal toxicity.
Conclusions:
- A multi-faceted approach combining reduced maternal viral load, appropriate delivery mode, infant feeding choices, and carefully selected ART can drastically reduce HIV MTCT.
- Therapeutic decisions for pregnant women with HIV must consider individual treatment history, clinical status, and prognostic markers.
- Continued research and implementation of evidence-based strategies are vital to achieving an HIV-free generation.
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