HIV infection in the aspect of psychiatric practice

Presentation of the psychopathological signs and psychological dysfunctions associated with HIV infection is the aim of this review. Current neuropathological theories and psychiatric aspects of antiretroviral treatment have been outlined. Diagnostics and adequate treatment of psychiatric conditions concomitant to HIV infection are difficult because of the unspecific character of symptoms; thus, emphasis has been put on the characteristic psychopathological features that a clinician may encounter. We aimed to shed light on neuropathology of HIV and provide a wide variety of conclusions from current research topics. The descriptions of imaging studies results for corresponding issues have been included. The aspect of substance use disorders influence has been presented. Non-adherence to antiretroviral treatment, caused by an undiagnosed psychiatric disorder, contributes to a worse treatment outcome and results in building up drug resistance. Another issue is the fact that the often treatable psychopathological symptoms procure an even more profound decrease in quality of life. On the other hand psychiatric patients, drug addicts and people with risky sexual behaviours are groups at high risk of acquiring the infection, which suggests that it is worth to psychiatrically assess a HIV patient. Neglected, underdiagnosed and untreated psychiatric disorders increase the rates of risk-taking behaviours among the infected which states a threat to the public health of the seronegative population.