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
