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Review
. 2013 Dec;113(12):34-40; quiz 41.
doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000438867.67777.69.

HIV peripheral neuropathy and foot care management: a review of assessment and relevant guidelines

Joyce K Anastasi  1 , Bernadette Capili, Michelle Chang
Affiliations
Review

HIV peripheral neuropathy and foot care management: a review of assessment and relevant guidelines

Joyce K Anastasi et al. Am J Nurs. 2013 Dec.

Abstract

Despite the decline in the incidence of central nervous system disease associated with HIV, distal sensory peripheral (DSP) neuropathy continues to be prevalent in this population, causing debilitating symptoms and affecting quality of life. Patients typically present with numbness, tingling, burning pain, and loss of sensation in the toes and soles of their feet. Although this complication causes loss of protective function and puts patients at elevated risk for injury, infection, and falls, foot care for people with HIV is often overlooked. This article reviews what is known about DSP neuropathy in HIV and discusses relevant foot care guidelines, adopted from the literature on other conditions associated with neuropathic foot disorders.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors and planners have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

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