Posttraumatic stress disorder after occupational HIV exposure: two cases and a literature review.
Two healthcare workers developed disabling chronic posttraumatic stress disorder after needlestick exposures to blood from a patient infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), even though both continue to test negative for HIV antibody more than 22 months after their exposures. We describe these 2 cases and review the relevant literature. Prospective studies of psychological morbidity after occupational needlestick injuries are required to determine the role of long-term psychological follow-up, counseling, and support.
Worthington
Michael G
MG
Division of Infectious Diseases, Caritas St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Boston, MA 02135, USA. mworth@cchcs.org
Ross
John J
JJ
Bergeron
Ellen K
EK
D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000635:transmission*; D006801:Humans; D016602:Needlestick Injuries / Q000276:immunology; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000523:psychology*; D014481:United States