EVALUATION AND TREATMENT OF HIV-RELATED ILLNESSES IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prese nt frequently to emergency departments for treatment of complications. A working knowledge of the multisystem problems seen in HIV-infected patients is essential for the emergency physician. These problems are reviewed, with an emphasis on the respiratory, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal complications seen in patients with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). A practical approach is offered fo r management of febrile episodes and the other problems an emergency p hysician is likely to encounter.