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Abdominal sonography in AIDS. A review
J M Yee1, B N Raghavendra, S C Horii
1Department of Radiology, NYU Medical Center, NY 10016.
Summary
Abdominal ultrasound revealed common findings in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), including fatty liver and enlarged spleen. Lymphadenopathy on ultrasound may indicate immune compromise in AIDS patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
- Sonographic examination is a non-invasive imaging technique used to evaluate abdominal organs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the spectrum of sonographic findings in patients diagnosed with AIDS.
- To correlate specific ultrasound findings with modes of HIV transmission and immune status.
Main Methods:
- Abdominal sonography was performed on 155 patients with a clinical diagnosis of AIDS.
- Ultrasound findings were analyzed, including liver echogenicity, spleen size, lymph node status, and kidney appearance.
Main Results:
- Hyperechoic (fatty) liver and splenomegaly were observed in approximately 50% of patients.
- Lymphadenopathy and hyperechoic kidneys were present in about one-third of the patients.
- Intravenous drug abusers showed more renal changes, while sexually transmitted AIDS cases had higher splenomegaly incidence.
Conclusions:
- Sonography can detect common abdominal abnormalities in AIDS patients, such as fatty liver, splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, and kidney changes.
- Lymphadenopathy on ultrasound is a significant indicator of potential immune compromise in the clinical context of AIDS.
- Ultrasound is valuable for identifying and excluding treatable complications in patients with AIDS.