Serious gastrointestinal disorders associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection

Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are a frequent complication of AIDS. Although the majority of these processes are not life threatening, some diseases will require ICU monitoring. With the increasing longevity of the HIV-infected patient, many more patients may be admitted to the ICU for a variety of other complications where gastrointestinal disorders may be manifested. This article focuses on the differential diagnosis for the more common gastrointestinal complications of HIV infection as well as a rational approach for the ICU setting.