THE CLINICAL SPECTRUM AND PATHOGENESIS OF HIV ENCEPHALOPATHY, MYELOPATHY, AND PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

Human immunodeficiency virus infection commonly affects the nervous system, with the most important features being a dementing illness, a myelopathy, and a neuropathy. In the past year, important advances have been made in the epidemiology and treatment of these conditions. Moreover, a better understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms has emerged, with particular emphasis being placed upon gp]20, tumor necrosis factor, and quinolinic acid and other partly characterized neurotoxins. This review highlights these advances in the context of the clinical syndromes.