Pediatric human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection: updates on prevention and management.

Abstract

A greater understanding of perinatal HIV-1 transmission has resulted in a marked decrease in the incidence of pediatric HIV-1 infection in several affluent nations. Advances in treatment have led to a decrease in HIV-1-related morbidity and mortality in some HIV-1-infected children. Studies are ongoing to determine methods to sustain the salutary effects of treatment. A goal of child advocates is to translate these advances to communities with few resources. Efforts are underway to make infant chemoprophylaxis widely available and to define strategies to reduce exposure to maternal virus. Likewise, there is the need to increase the access of children to treatment.