Polyneuropathies in HIV infection

Abstract

In approximately 10-16% of the cases, diseases of the peripheral nerves occur in the fully developed stage of AIDS, more seldom, however, in the stage of ARC. Some cases have been described in the stage of seroconversion or lymphadenopathy. At this stage cranial neuropathies can show up in connection with aseptic meningitis. The peripheral nerve diseases are present as distal symmetric sensomotory neuropathy, as chronic demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, as acute polyradiculoneuritis and as mononeuropathy multiplex. Frequently Varicella-zoster-radiculitis is observed. Cranial neuropathies are noted especially together with atypical aseptic meningitis, as a syndrome of the above mentioned polyneuropathies, with intracranial lymphomas and meningitides and meningoencephalitides caused by opportunistic infections. The morphological findings of the roots and nerves are variable: axonal degeneration and/or demyelination, infiltration of lymphocytes and microvasculitis. The pathogenesis varies: amongst others, direct infection by HIV, immunopathological changes and opportunistic infections are considered. The spontaneous development frequently leads to a remission. Treatment with corticosteroids and/or plasma exchange is only partially successful.