Head and neck findings in pediatric acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Abstract

Since the initial reports of an immune deficiency syndrome affecting certain segments of the adult population (homosexual males, bisexual males, intravenous drug abusers, prostitutes, hemophiliacs, Haitian immigrants), a specific group of pediatric patients with an identical immunologic picture has been identified. This report describes the head and neck findings seen in a group of these pediatric patients. Ninety percent were microsomic. Developmental delay occurred in 90%. Inflammatory ear disease occurred in 80%. Lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia and mucocutaneous candidiasis each occurred in 80%, cortical atrophy in 60%, cervical adenopathy in 40%, and parotid enlargement in 30%. The otolaryngologist may be called upon to evaluate patients with pediatric acquired immune deficiency syndrome (PAIDS), and therefore, should be familiar with the head and neck manifestations of this disease.