Headache and the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection

Holloway RG, Kieburtz KDHeadache1995 05, 35: 5, 245-55

This review focuses on the prevalence, causes, evaluation, and treatment of headache in individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Headaches, one of the commonest medical complaints in the general population, occur frequently in patients infected with the HIV-1. HIV-related headaches can occur at any time during the infection: at seroconversion, during the incubation period, in patients with symptomatic HIV-1 infection, or after an AIDS-defining illness. Causes of HIV-related headaches include HIV-1 itself, opportunistic conditions, or HIV-specific medications. Migraines, tension-type headaches, depression, and substance abuse enter into the differential diagnosis, particularly in the early stages of disease. The headaches seen in this population reflect a complex web of interactions imposed by immune competency, multiple etiologies, treatments, and premorbid conditions. Prompt recognition and early treatment of headache is essential since it may improve quality of life and, depending on the diagnosis, prolong survival. Physicians need to be alert and adaptable when assessing HIV-infected individuals with headache since multiple causes can exist in the same patient and new syndromes, complications, and investigational drugs are continually being identified.

SOTO | USA > SOT Literature > Headache > HIV and Headaches > Headache and the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection

Editor Recommends
Most Read Articles

Editor Recommends

This SOT Literature Page and all its contents herein are published by SOTO-USA solely for the purpose of education. All rights reserved by SOTO-USA to accept, reject or modify any submission for publication. The opinions stated in the electronically printed material herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SOTO-USA or other individuals associated with SOTO-USA. SOTO-USA does not guarantee or make any representation that the printed material contained herein is valid, reliable or accurate. SOTO-USA does not assume any responsibility for injury arising from any use or misuse of the printed material herein. The printed material contained herein is assumed to be from reliable sources and there is no implication that the printed material herein present the only, or the best methodologies or procedures for the care or treatment of conditions discussed. It is incumbent upon the reader to verify the accuracy of any diagnosis and treatment information contained herein, and to make modifications as new information and/or research arises.