North Carolina Neurological Foundation (NCNF)

Major Neurocognitive Disorder Due To HIV Infection

Major neurocognitive disorder due to HIV infection encompasses cognitive impairment resulting from direct viral effects, immune-mediated injury, and opportunistic infections. Etiology involves HIV-associated neuroinflammation, neuronal loss, and coexisting infections or metabolic complications. Clinical features include impaired attention, memory deficits, slowed processing, and executive dysfunction, often accompanied by mood disturbances. Diagnosis requires neuropsychological testing, exclusion of other causes, and assessment of viral load and immune status. Management involves antiretroviral therapy, supportive cognitive rehabilitation, and treatment of comorbidities to slow progression.