Definition
AIDS dementia complex (ADC) can occur in people with AIDS . ADC results in changes in multiple neurologic areas:
- Cognition—the ability to understand, process, and remember information
- Behavior—difficulty performing daily tasks
- Emotions—may have personality changes and depression
- Motor coordination—the ability to coordinate muscles and movement
ADC is a common nervous system complication of late-stage HIV infection.
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your chance of having ADC include:
- Untreated HIV infection
- Late-stage AIDS
Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time. They can be grouped into stages:
Stage 1 (Mild)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty remembering details, such as phone numbers, appointments, or tracking daily activities
- Slowed thinking
- Longer time needed to complete complicated tasks
- Irritability
- Unsteady walking, tremor, or difficulty keeping balance
- Poor hand function
- Change in handwriting
- Depression
Stage 2 (Moderate)
- Weakness
- More focus and attention needed
- Slow responses
- Frequently dropping objects
- Feelings of indifference
- Slowness or difficulty with normal activities, such as eating or writing
Walking, balance, and coordination require a great deal of effort at this stage.
Stages 3 and 4 (Severe and End Stage)
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Abnormal gait, making walking more difficult
- Muteness
- Withdrawing from life
- Severe mental disorders, such as psychosis or mania
- Unable to leave bed
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. A mental status/neurological exam may be done.
Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:
- Blood tests, such as an HIV test
- Lumbar puncture to test the cerebrospinal fluid that protects the brain and spinal cord
Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with:
Your brain's electrical activity may be tested. This can be done with an electroencephalogram (EEG).
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Antiretroviral Therapy
Anti-HIV drugs are often used to treat ADC. A medication plan will be created that is right for you. These drugs are often given in combination.
Other Medications
Other medications may be used along with antiretroviral therapy to treat symptoms of ADC. These may include:
- Antipsychotics
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Stimulants
- Mood stabilizers
- Medications to prevent seizures
Prevention
ADC occurs in people with HIV. Ways to help reduce your chance of getting HIV include:
- When you have sex, use a male latex condom .
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Avoid sexual partners who are HIV-infected.
- Do not share needles for drug injection.
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If you are a healthcare worker:
- Wear appropriate gloves and facial masks during all procedures.
- Carefully handle and properly dispose of needles.
- Carefully follow universal precautions.
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If you live in a household with someone who has HIV:
- Wear appropriate gloves if handling HIV-infected bodily fluids.
- Cover your cuts and sores with bandages. Also cover cuts and sores on the person with HIV.
- Do not share any personal hygiene items, such as razors or toothbrushes.
- Carefully handle and properly dispose of needles used for medication.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Rimas Lukas, MD
- Review Date: 09/2018 -
- Update Date: 08/18/2014 -