Am J Psychiatry 1987; 144:551-556
Copyright © 1987 by American Psychiatric Association
Psychiatric aspects of AIDS
ME Faulstich
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has neuropsychiatric and
psychopathological complications: anxiety, depressive symptoms, and
suicidal ideation are common. Patients may express anger toward ineffective
medical care and perceived public discrimination, guilt about sexual
practices or drug abuse, reactions to social isolation, and uncertainty
about the implications of an AIDS diagnosis. CNS dysfunction and subsequent
neuropsychiatric impairment are common and are initially characterized by
decreased acuity, slowed mentation, and psychomotor retardation that can
resemble depression. Marked global cognitive deficits, disorientation, and
delusions ensue. The author discusses case management and outlines future
clinical and research activities.
