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AIDS Dementia

By , About.com Guide

Created: January 20, 2007

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Definition:
A degenerative neurological condition attributed to HIV infection, characterized by:
  • loss of coordination
  • mood swings or changes
  • loss of inhibitions
  • mental status changes
  • changes in personality
  • widespread cognitive dysfunctions.

It is the most common central nervous system complication of HIV infection. Characteristically, it manifests itself after the patient develops major opportunistic infections or AIDS-related cancers. However, patients can also have this syndrome before these major systemic complications occur.

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