AIDS and the nervous system

Article Abstract:

Infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) damages both the immune system and the nervous system of patients suffering from AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). The nervous system may be invaded early in the course of the infection, resulting in many types of neurological disorders, such as recurrent aseptic meningitis (inflammation of the membranes of the spinal cord or brain), or chronic HIV encephalopathy which is also referred to at "AIDS dementia complex" and is the most common cause of chronic neurological dysfunction in HIV-infected adults. AIDS demential complex is associated with progressive cognitive impairment and motor abnormalities. Diagnostic images of the brains of these patients show significant atrophy. HIV infection also promotes opportunistic viral and nonviral infections of the central nervous system which may result cause multiple brain lesions or abscesses. Studies investigating zidovudine (AZT) in the treatment of AIDS dementia show that some improvement is possible, however, the role of AZT in the treatment of HIV-related neurological disorders is unclear. Further research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of AZT therapy in the treatment of HIV-related infections.

Analysis, Causes of, Central nervous system diseases, Neuromuscular manifestations of general diseases

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Frequency of hyponatremia and nonosmolar vasopressin release in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Article Abstract:

The frequency and pathophysiology of hyponatremia, or decreased sodium in the blood, were studied in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Hyponatremia was present in 37 of one group of 71 patients, and in 27 of another group of 48 patients with AIDS. Blood volume, osmolality (ion levels in the blood and urine), function of the kidneys, adrenal and thyroid glands, and blood levels of the hormone vasopressin were examined in 16 hyponatremic AIDS patients. Vasopressin, formed in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary, decreases the elimination of water and increases blood pressure. Urine osmolalities were inappropriately increased relative to blood osmolality increases. Four patients developed impaired kidney function. Blood levels of vasopressin were increased in 15 patients; the highest levels of vasopressin occurred in patients who later died. The results show that hyponatremia may result from various causes in AIDS patients and is associated with a 30 percent short-term death rate. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Research, Measurement, Hyponatremia, Vasopressin, Vasopressins

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Cytomegalovirus retinitis

Article Abstract:

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is associated with many viral and bacterial infections of the eye. One of the most common causes of blindness in AIDS patients is cytomegalovirus (CMV)-induced retinitis, a virus which causes inflammation of the retina (the inner lining of the eye that receives images formed by the lens). Retinitis is characterized by tissue damage to the retina, and to the blood vessels and nerves within the retina. Two antiviral drugs, ganciclovir and foscarnet are effective in treating CMV retinitis. These drugs prevent the proliferation of the virus, but do not actually kill the microbes, and hence long-term therapy is required. If the antiviral drugs are discontinued, the retinitis may recur. The drugs have toxic side effects on the bone marrow, blood and kidneys. Diagnosis of CMV retinitis is confirmed by physical examination of the eye, and treatment with the antiviral agents should be started immediately to prevent blindness.

Health aspects, Physiological aspects, Retinal diseases, Antiviral agents, Cytomegaloviruses, Cytomegalovirus

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