Disclosure of an HIV diagnosis to children: history, current research, and future directions

Area of Science:

• Pediatric infectious diseases
• Clinical psychology
• Family medicine

Background:

• Disclosure of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) diagnosis to children is a sensitive and debated topic.
• Parents and healthcare providers face challenges in communicating pediatric HIV status.
• Existing research on pediatric cancer disclosure offers a framework for understanding HIV disclosure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review research on the disclosure of pediatric HIV infection.
• To examine patterns, influencing factors, and psychological effects of disclosure.
• To review intervention studies and identify clinical consensus for family support.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of research on pediatric HIV disclosure.
• Analysis of studies on disclosure patterns, associated factors, and psychological outcomes.
• Inclusion of published intervention studies and clinical practice recommendations.

Main Results:

• No consensus was found regarding the optimal timing for disclosing HIV diagnosis to children.
• Research indicates varied psychological outcomes associated with disclosure.
• Clinical consensus exists on several aspects of supporting families through the disclosure process.

Conclusions:

• Disclosure of pediatric HIV infection requires careful consideration of individual child and family factors.
• Further research is needed to establish best practices and understand long-term psychological impacts.
• Clinical practice should focus on supporting families and addressing the complexities of disclosure.