HIV-Encephalopathy (HIV-

associated dementia)
Written by Dr Sam Nightingale, neurologist and MRC
Research Fellow in Liverpool with the Brain Infections
Group and the HIV-Pharmacology Group.

This factsheet aims to provide the people affected by

HIV-encephalopathy, their families, friends and carers
with a better understanding of this condition.

What is HIV-encephalopathy?

HIV-encephalopathy is the result of damage to the brain by

longstanding HIV infection. It is also known as HIV-associated
dementia, or AIDS-dementia complex. HIV-encephalopathy causes
problems with concentration and memory and may cause some
slowness of physical movements. These problems tend to develop
slowly over months or even years but can become quite severe and
some people may need help to look after themselves.

People with HIV-encephalopathy have problems with their memory, for

example they may forget where they have put things or the names of
people they know well. They may get lost in familiar surroundings or
have difficulty recognising faces. Some of those with HIV-
encephalopathy

encephalopathy may also lose interest in things they used to enjoy

doing. They may become withdrawn and stop socialising. Sometimes it
may seem as if their personality has changed or that they have become
depressed.

HIV-encephalopathy can also cause physical movements to slow

down. Things that are usually quick to do, such as putting on shoes or
brushing teeth, may start to take a long time. People may find it hard to
do fine movements such as doing up buttons. Some experience
difficulty walking, for example they may be slow to get going or tend to
shuffle rather than stride out.

Is there any treatment for HIV-encephalopathy?

Antiretroviral drugs are very effective against HIV and can slow down
the progression of the disease. An improvement in the symptoms of
HIV-encephalopathy can occur in the first few weeks or months of
treatment. Apart from antiretroviral drugs there is currently no other
specific treatment for HIV-encephalopathy, but of course lots can be
done to help and support people with this condition.

Can HIV-encephalopathy be prevented?

HIV-encephalopathy occurs when HIV infection has become advanced

and is a feature of AIDS. If HIV is diagnosed early enough,
antiretroviral drugs can prevent progression to AIDS, so most of those
with HIV do not go on to develop HIV-encephalopathy.

Mild neurocognitive disorder (MNCD)

Some people with HIV have mild problems with thinking and memory
that are too subtle to be classed as dementia. These are referred to as

mild neurocognitive disorder, or MNCD for short. Fortunately with

modern HIV treatment few people develop dementia due to HIV,
however MNCD is becoming quite common, even amongst people on
treatment. For more information see the separate fact-sheet Mild
neurocognitive disorder (MNCD) in HIV.

HIV-meningoencephalitis

HIV-encephalopathy is the result of gradual brain damage from long

term HIV infection. Occasionally however, HIV can affect the brain
soon after first becoming infected. Headache, neck stiffness,
confusion, and drowsiness develop over the course of hours or days.
This is known as HIV-meningoencephalitis, for more information see
the separate Encephalitis Society fact-sheet HIV-
meningoencephalitis.

FS022V1 HIV-Encephalopathy (HIV- Associated Dementia) Page Created:

April 2011/ Review date: April 2013

We try to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date as possible.

None of the authors of the above document has declared any conflict of
interest which may arise from being named as an author of this document.

The authors have used evidence, academic and professional experience in

writing this factsheet. If you would like more information on the source
material and references the author used to write this page please contact the
Encephalitis Society.