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Vestibular involvement in adults with HIV/AIDS
Barbara M Heinze1, Bart M Vinck2, Louis M Hofmeyr3
1Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
Auris, Nasus, Larynx
|October 23, 2013
Summary
Individuals with HIV experience significantly higher rates of vestibular involvement, affecting nearly 80% of cases. This condition can occur even in asymptomatic individuals, highlighting the need for proactive screening and management in HIV care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Head and neck manifestations are common in HIV/AIDS.
- The prevalence and characteristics of vestibular system involvement in HIV-infected individuals are not well understood.
- Understanding vestibular function is crucial for managing the overall health of HIV patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the occurrence and nature of vestibular involvement in adults with HIV versus a control group.
- To assess vestibular function in HIV-positive adults based on symptoms and antiretroviral therapy (ART) status.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 53 HIV-positive adults and 38 HIV-negative controls.
- Data collection included subjective symptom interviews, medical record reviews (CD4 counts, ART use), and comprehensive vestibular assessments (bedside tests, VEMPs, ocular motor/positional tests, caloric irrigation).
Main Results:
- Vestibular involvement was significantly higher in HIV-positive subjects (79.2%) compared to controls (18.4%).
- Prevalence increased with HIV disease progression (CDC categories 1-3).
- Vestibular involvement occurred in both symptomatic (35.9%) and asymptomatic (41.5%) HIV-positive individuals, with no significant difference based on ART use.
Conclusions:
- Vestibular involvement is substantially more prevalent in individuals with HIV.
- Primary care providers should consider screening HIV-positive patients for vestibular symptoms.
- Early identification and intervention, including vestibular rehabilitation, may be beneficial for affected patients.
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