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Human immunodeficiency virus infection in pregnancy
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn, Maimonides Medical Center, NY 11219, USA.
Seminars in Perinatology
|September 17, 1998
Summary
Physicians can now effectively diagnose and treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, preventing mother-to-child transmission. This guide offers obstetricians the latest data and clinical guidelines for managing HIV in pregnant patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) was unknown 20 years ago and untreatable 10 years ago.
- Significant advancements have made HIV readily diagnosable and treatable.
- Mother-to-child transmission of HIV, once immutable, can now be blocked in most cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide obstetricians with a primer on managing HIV in pregnant patients.
- To present data forming the basis of current HIV therapies.
- To offer clinical guidelines for the care of pregnant women with HIV.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific data on HIV diagnosis and treatment.
- Compilation of clinical guidelines for obstetric care of HIV-infected individuals.
- Focus on strategies to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission.
Main Results:
- HIV is now readily diagnosed and effectively treated.
- Therapies can block mother-to-child transmission in the majority of cases.
- Physician screening and access to therapies are crucial for patient care.
Conclusions:
- Advances in HIV knowledge and treatment are substantial.
- Obstetricians play a vital role in screening and ensuring access to care for pregnant patients with HIV.
- Effective management strategies significantly improve outcomes and prevent transmission.