pediatrics
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection in Infants and Children
Introduction
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is caused by the retrovirus HIV-1 (and less commonly by the related retrovirus HIV-2). Infection leads to progressive immunologic deterioration and opportunistic infections and cancers. The end stage is acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Diagnosis is by viral antibodies in children>18 months and virologic nucleic acid amplification tests (such as polymerase chain reaction testing) in children<18 months. Treatment is with combinations of antiretroviral medications. (See also Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection in adults.) The general natural history and pathophysiology of pediatric HIV infection is similar to that in adults; however, the method of infection, clinical presentations, and treatments often differ. Children with HIV infection may also have unique Psychosocial approach to children with HIV infection . 