AIDS: Nervous System Complications

What is AIDS?

AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is the result of an infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (also called HIV). This virus attacks cells of the immune system, nervous system, and other body systems. The cells that are attacked and damaged by the infection no longer work properly.

How does AIDS affect the nervous system?

AIDS can cause some serious nervous system problems. The nervous system includes your brain, spinal cord, and all other nerves. These problems can be one of the most challenging aspects of the disease. They may happen when:

• HIV infects the nervous system.
• Other viruses, fungi, bacteria, or parasites take advantage of your weakened immune system and infect the nervous system.
• AIDS-related cancers develop.
• Drugs taken to fight AIDS cause side effects that affect or damage nerves.

What are the nervous system problems caused by AIDS?

Dementia is a common type of mental change caused by the AIDS virus. Early symptoms include slowed thinking, and poor short-term memory and concentration. You may have changes in behavior and physical coordination. If the problem becomes serious, you may need to quit work and may have trouble caring for yourself.

Two other common brain conditions in people with AIDS are lymphoma and infection with toxoplasma. Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph tissue that can occur in the brain. Toxoplasma is a parasite found in cat feces and raw meat. It causes patches of tissue death in the brain. These problems cause headaches, seizures, and sluggishness. They are diagnosed with a brain scan and blood tests. Sometimes a brain biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

The AIDS virus may also damage the spinal cord. When your spinal cord is damaged you may have leg weakness and lose control of your bladder. Other nerves may be damaged, causing symptoms of weakness, numbness, tingling, and burning pain in the limbs. These damaged nerve cells cannot repair themselves. Even if the AIDS virus is brought under control, the damage may be permanent.

How are nervous system problems treated or prevented?

The antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV infection may help slow the development of dementia. Antidementia drugs may also help you have less memory loss and confusion.

Infection with toxoplasmosis may be prevented by taking a combination of medicines called trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.

How can I take care of myself?

If you have AIDS, you should get medical care right away for any new symptoms, such as:

• a new headache
• changes in memory, concentration, or thinking
• changes in vision
• changes in your ability to move
• severe changes in personality or behavior.

To learn more, call your local AIDS organization or the national CDC-INFO 24-hour hotline at 1-800-232-4636.