Radiologic imaging of AIDS

Abstract

The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an increasingly important disease that has become a social phenomenon. Although our therapeutic options for treating AIDS patients are limited at present, radiologic investigation is often of crucial importance in determining the extent and stage of opportunistic infections and neoplasms. This manuscript deals in depth with the manifestations of AIDS in the chest, abdomen, and central nervous system. It emphasizes the importance of cross-sectional imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound as well as guided fine needle aspiration biopsy. The first chapter is a brief overview of the general management of AIDS patients in the radiology department. It seeks to emphasize a careful caring approach to patients with this disease. It also emphasizes the importance of educating all radiology personnel to an awareness of how precautions can be taken to avoid the spread of AIDS while dealing with patients in a professional, courteous manner.