Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in pediatric patients. Case report and review

The first pediatric case of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) observed in Switzerland is described. The 3-year-old African/Swiss patient was most probably vertically infected from her asymptomatic, HTLV-III antibody positive Zairian mother. Clinical symptomatology started at 14 months of age, and diagnosis was made at 22 months when medical care and comprehensive investigation were initiated at this clinic. Review of the literature revealed 125 pediatric patients with AIDS. Based on these data, relevant and practically orientated information is given concerning definition, epidemiology, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, management, and prognosis of this newly recognized entity.