Distal sensory polyneuropathy in the context of HIV/AIDS.
Peripheral neuropathy, or distal sensory polyneuropathy (DSPN), is the most common neurological problem in HIV disease. DSPN also represents a complex symptom that occurs because of peripheral nerve damage related to advanced HIV disease and in association with the use of antiretroviral therapy-particularly in individuals treated with dideoxynucleosides. Although DSPN is a frequent symptom, the specific pathophysiology is not well understood. The HIV-related neuropathies are commonly categorized as distal sensory polyneuropathies, although antiretroviral toxic neuropathies are described in the literature. Recently, mitochondrial toxicity has been identified as a possible etiology of DSPN. As individuals with HIV/AIDS survive longer, often living for decades with the disease, chronic symptoms like DSPN must be addressed. Pharmacologic approaches, complementary therapies, and self-care behaviors that may improve quality of life and limit symptoms of DSPN are important interventions for clinicians and those living with HIV/AIDS to consider in the management of peripheral neuropathy.
Nicholas
Patrice K
PK
Global Health and Academic Partnerships, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Division of Social Medicine and Health Inequalities and Center for Nursing Excellence, USA.
Mauceri
Lauren
L
Slate Ciampa
Abigail
A
Corless
Inge B
IB
Raymond
Nadia
N
Barry
Donna J
DJ
Viamonte Ros
Ana
A
D000465:Algorithms; D023241:Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing; D001706:Biopsy; D015984:Causality; D002908:Chronic Disease; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D003663:Decision Trees; D016903:Drug Monitoring; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D008928:Mitochondria / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010808:Physical Examination; D011115:Polyneuropathies / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D015995:Prevalence; D011788:Quality of Life; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012648:Self Care