A Review of Pediatric Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) affects millions of children worldwide. New pediatric cases are continuing to be diagnosed. However, with the approval and use of various new protocols and antiretroviral agents, transmission rates in perinatally exposed infants have dramatically declined and survival of HIV-infected children has been prolonged. Prevention education is the starting point to try to reduce future transmission; however, increases in HIV cases continue to be seen in the adolescent population. Current pharmacological therapy of HIV includes a multidrug regimen with the potential for numerous drug-drug interactions, adverse effects, and development of resistance. Routine monitoring of adherence is required to try to attain and sustain viral suppression. This review will focus on current treatment recommendations for infants, children, and adolescents infected with HIV, including newly approved agents in 2003. Pediatric considerations, including differences in diagnosis and monitoring, will also be discussed.