Anaesthetic considerations of the HIV-infected patients

Abstract

Purpose of review 

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the major global health problems. Because the advances in treatment of HIV infection increase the patient's survival, anaesthesiologists may care for these patients during their practice. This article highlights HIV infection and anaesthetic implications.

Recent findings 

HIV infection is a spectrum of disease varying from asymptomatic to multiple organ involvement. Safe anaesthetic management in HIV-infected patients includes understanding basic knowledge of HIV infection, organ involvement, pharmacology and adverse reactions of antiretroviral agents. There are no specific anaesthetic agents and techniques for HIV-infected patients. Issues on central neural blockade and immunological aspects on HIV infection were discussed. Infection control to prevent transmission of infections to and from HIV-infected patients must be strictly conducted.

Summary 

Anaesthesia in HIV-infected patients should be individualized and depend on the status of the patient.