Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection in Infants, Children, and Adolescents

This chapter discusses the background, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The term pediatric HIV is used to refer to children less than or equal to 13 years. Adolescent HIV refers to youth greater than or equal to 13 years living with HIV. In the United States, perinatal HIV infection occurs infrequently, and currently most pediatric infections are acquired during adolescence. HIV screening should be a part of routine adolescent care, and acute HIV infection can present as a mononucleosis-like illness. An HIV RNA assay is the diagnostic test of choice when suspected for HIV. HIV infection is asymptomatic for years. Patients with HIV infection are present with an opportunistic infection or with end-organ involvement. The treatment of HIV infection involves combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) and results in improved patient outcomes and decreased transmission rates.