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[Perinatal HIV-infection. Symptomatology, diagnosis and treatment]
L Brunvand1, S Medbø, R Lindemann
1Barneavdelingen, Ullevål sykehus, Oslo.
Insights
Perinatal HIV infection is a growing concern in infants, often affecting the central nervous system and leading to high mortality. Early treatment with zidovudine (AZT) and immunoglobulin may improve outcomes for these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Perinatally acquired Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection presents a significant and increasing challenge.
- Infants born to HIV-infected mothers face risks, with cases documented in Norway in 1988 and 1989.
- Pediatric Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) can manifest with diverse clinical symptoms, frequently impacting the central nervous system.
Abstract:
Perinatally acquired HIV-infection is an increasing problem. Nine infants were born of HIV-infected mothers in Norway in 1988, and ten in 1989. Pediatric AIDS may involve a wide spectrum of clinical diseases with a high affinity to the central nervous system. The time from birth to development of clinical symptoms is relatively short. The overall mortality rate is extremely high in all age groups. Two children with perinatal HIV-infection are discussed in light of our treatment regimen. Children with immunosuppression and/or clinical symptoms are treated with zidovudine (azidotymidin/AZT) perorally. Children with repeated bacterial or opportunistic infections are also given immunoglobulin intravenously every 3rd to 4th week.