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Peripheral neuropathy in children with HIV infection
M K Floeter1, L A Civitello, C R Everett
1EMG Section, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Insights
Peripheral neuropathy in children with HIV is underrecognized. A study found various nerve issues, including distal symmetric polyneuropathy, often in older children, highlighting the need for better diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Peripheral neuropathy is rarely documented in pediatric HIV cases, suggesting potential underdiagnosis.
- Understanding the spectrum of neurological complications is crucial for managing HIV-infected children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of peripheral neuropathy in children with HIV.
- To characterize the types of neuropathies identified through electrodiagnostic studies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 50 children with HIV referred for suspected peripheral neuropathy.
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) were utilized for evaluation.
Main Results:
- Abnormal nerve conduction studies were found in 12 out of 50 children.
- Common findings included distal sensory or sensorimotor axonal neuropathy (7 children) and carpal tunnel syndrome (3 children).
- Other diagnoses included demyelinating neuropathy (1 child) and lumbosacral polyradiculopathy (1 adolescent). Distal symmetric polyneuropathy was more prevalent in older children.
Conclusions:
- Peripheral neuropathy is a relevant complication in children with HIV, presenting with diverse electrodiagnostic findings.
- Axonal neuropathies and nerve entrapment syndromes are notable in this population.
- Early recognition and further research into pediatric HIV-associated neuropathies are warranted.
Abstract:
Peripheral neuropathy is infrequently reported in children with HIV infection, but may be underrecognized. To provide a better understanding of the patterns of peripheral neuropathy in these children, we surveyed the charts of 50 children with HIV infection referred to the EMG laboratory at the National Institutes of Health for evaluation of suspected peripheral neuropathy. Twelve children had an abnormal nerve conduction study. The findings suggested a distal sensory or sensorimotor axonal neuropathy in seven children, median nerve compression at the carpal tunnel in three, a demyelinating neuropathy in one child, and a lumbosacral polyradiculopathy in one adolescent. Distal symmetric polyneuropathy occurred mostly in older-aged children.