[Rectal biopsies from HIV-infected patients]

Rectosigmoidoscopy and rectal biopsies specimens were taken from thirty six HIV infected patients in the Vargas Hospital of Caracas. There were thirty three males and three females. the mean age was thirty two years. Seventy three per cent were homosexuals. The sexual behaviour was the most important risk factor for the infection with the HIV. Forty four per cent of the rectosigmoidoscopies were abnormal, presenting hiperemic or petechiae mucosas. Alterations in rectal biopsies were reported on all specimens, twenty six with inespecific chronic rectitis. Two bipsies reported Kaposi's Sarcoma and eight bipsies demonstrated opportunistic agents.