Transformed occupational prospects for HIV-associated brain syndromes

We report a case of a full-time worker with late undiagnosed HIV disease presenting as encephalopathy with motor features and a manic-like picture. HIV encephalopathy was a terminal condition before the advent of combination highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART). Treatment with HAART, with follow-up in a neuropsychiatric service and rehabilitation involving the occupational health department of his employer, produced a successful return to work. This case demonstrates a remarkable transformation in occupational and other outcomes of HIV-related brain disease in the era of HAART.