Manifestations of AIDS in the head and neck.
BACKGROUND
A significant number of patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are initially seen with symptoms related to the head and neck. It is becoming increasingly challenging for clinicians to accurately diagnose new lesions, considering the vast array of manifestations of AIDS in this region and their many atypical presentations. A comprehensive review is a valuable clinical tool.


METHODS
A MEDLINE search of the English language literature from 1984 to the present was done for this study.


RESULTS
Dermatologic, otologic, nose/paranasal sinuses/nasopharynx, oral cavity/oropharynx, laryngeal, and neck manifestations are reviewed. The gross and microscopic appearances of lesions are described, with particular emphasis on various presentations of the same lesion and lesions that may mimic the appearance of others. Practical treatment strategies are also discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
Accurate and early recognition of the many common and uncommon manifestations of AIDS in the head and neck is of critical importance to the timely and effective management of these patients.
Department of Otolaryngology, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, NY, USA.
W R
WR
Reisacher
D G
DG
Finn
J
J
Stern
B
B
Zeifer
R
R
Cocker
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000150:complications*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology*; D006801:Humans; D010038:Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology*; D009057:Stomatognathic Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology*