HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND)

HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND)

-HIV associated dementia is characterized by a clinical triad of progressive cognitive decline, motor dysfunction, and behavioral abnormality.

-Symptoms & Signs: memory deficits, impaired executive functioning, poor attention and concentration, psychomotor slowing, apathy, social withdrawal

Diagnosis:

-The HIV Dementia Scale tests

-The most common neuropathologic finding is a diffuse destruction of white matter and subcortical gray matter.

-All patients with HIV dementia should be evaluated for comorbid depression

changes in mental status or aphasia and motor abnormalities.

-Antiretroviral therapy is the most effective treatment for HIV-associated dementia.

Treatment: The main treatment modality for HAND: Antiretroviral therapy