Burchett SK, Pizzo PA: HIV infection in infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatr Rev 2003;24(6):186-193.

Success in preventing perinatal transmission of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is reducing the number of HIV infections in neonates, children, and adolescents in the United States. However, 10% of children acquire HIV from prior blood product exposure, sexual abuse, or unknown sources. This article reviews HIV definitions, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical aspects in infants, children and adolescents, laboratory tests, and management.

Management includes antiretroviral agents (use of initial therapy and changes in regimen), immune-based therapy, and prophylactic therapy. Since HIV infection is a family-centered chronic illness, a team approach is needed to manage the treatment of the child; disclosure of the diagnosis to family members, friends, schools, and workplace; health care coverage, housing, jobs, and school placements. Addressing mental health care needs is critical to helping the child and family adhere to the antiretroviral regimens and cope with long-term community involvement.