Pediatric human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome: an overview.

Abstract

This article covers the epidemiological manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in children, demographic statistics, and information on the three modes of virus transmission. The various opportunistic diseases and neurological dysfunction that characterize pediatric HIV are described. The Center for Disease Control pediatric HIV classification system is presented, and the developmental disorders often found in children with HIV are discussed. The Universal Disease Precautions of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) for clinicians is also presented.