Cerebral infarction in pediatric acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Cerebral infarction is an uncommon complication of AIDS in pediatric patients. We have seen three HIV-infected children who developed acute neurological deficits due to stroke. Cerebral infarction must be considered in the work-up of a child with AIDS who presents with focal neurological deficit, seizure or mental status change. Stroke is a complication of HIV infection that occurs in approximately 1% of affected children [1]. At autopsy, evidence of cerebral infarction was documented in 10-30% of children with HIV infection [2]. We have seen three children with focal infarction who are HIV positive.