Atlas of the Neuropathology of HIV Infection

Book excerpt: HIV infection ultimately results in a wide variety of lesions in almost every organ of the body. The classification and diagnosis of these lesions are often difficult as they can appear in a variety of forms and are affected by other opportunistic pathogens characteristic of AIDS. This volume is a systematic, pictorial guide to the lesions which affect the central and peripheral nervous systems in particular. The pathological appearances of the lesions are correlated with radiological, ophthalmic, and cytological information. The book also demonstrates the use of more sophisticated techniques such as immunocytochemistry, in situ hybridization, and electron microscopic investigations in diagnosing and understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of these lesions. Although the later neurological complications of AIDS are covered comprehensively, the early neurological effects of HIV infection are also covered. The full range of lesions is surveyed, including rare and unusual pathological features. This major reference work will be invaluable to clinicians and researchers interested in the effects of AIDS on the nervous system. It contains more than 500 high-quality images in color and black and white, accompanied by commentary from internationally recognized experts.