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Published on: September 26, 2011
Late presentation of HIV infection: a consensus definition
A Antinori1, T Coenen, D Costagiola
1National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Lazzaro Spallanzani, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
HIV Medicine
|June 22, 2010
Summary
A consensus definition for late Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) presentation was developed to improve European surveillance. This definition aids in identifying individuals who access care late, with specific CD4 counts or AIDS-defining events.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Late presentation of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is a significant issue across Europe, with nearly one-third of individuals seeking care late.
- Inadequate surveillance and a lack of a common clinical definition hinder efforts to understand and address late HIV presentation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a unified, consensus definition for late presentation of HIV infection in Europe.
- To facilitate consistent reporting and surveillance of late HIV presenters.
Main Methods:
- A working group convened to harmonize definitions through collaborative initiatives.
- Efforts focused on identifying a common definition for 'late-presenting' patients.
Main Results:
- Two definitions were agreed upon: 'Late presentation' (CD4 count <350 cells/μL or AIDS-defining event) and 'Presentation with advanced HIV disease' (CD4 count <200 cells/μL or AIDS-defining event).
- These definitions provide clear criteria for classifying patients based on disease stage at presentation.
Conclusions:
- The European Late Presenter Consensus working group recommends the adoption of this consensus definition.
- Implementing this definition will enhance the consistency and comparability of surveillance and research data on late HIV presentation across Europe.
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