Psychiatric aspects of comorbid HIV/AIDS and pain, Part 1

Abstract

HIV/AIDS-related pain remains a clinically challenging condition despite recent advances in treatment modalities. The existing data on pain in HIV-positive persons demonstrate a high prevalence, wide variability in clinical presentation, significant negative impact on health-related quality of life, and alarmingly inadequate assessment and management. Patients with HIV/AIDS have clearly identified physician attention to pain control as extremely important. This article discusses the psychiatric components and considerable impact of pain in the HIV population. Special attention is given to psychological assessment issues, psychosocial barriers to treatment, and psychotherapeutic approaches. An integrated, flexible, and interdisciplinary team approach model for treating HIV/AIDS-related pain is presented with specific recommendations.