Neurologic manifestations of HIV infection

A wide spectrum of central and peripheral nervous system abnormalities may be associated with HIV infection. These disorders may be caused by HIV infection, result as secondary complications related to immunosuppression, or be a neurotoxic effect of therapeutic agents. The range of neurologic disorders includes dementia, focal cerebral mass lesions, myelopathy, peripheral neuropathies, and myopathy. Early diagnosis and therapy is critical, and may result in substantial improvement in patients' quality and quantity of life. This article reviews the approach to differential diagnosis of these neurologic disorders and presents theories of pathogenesis and current approaches to treatment.