Opportunistic cerebral vasculopathy and stroke in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To describe an unusual cause of stroke in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

Design: An observational case series of hospitalized patients with subsequent autopsy.

Measures: Clinical, radiological, and pathological examinations were performed.

Results: In three of 14 patients with stroke, the infarctions were secondary to an opportunistic vasculopathy caused by Candida albicans, cytomegalovirus, or lymphoma.

Conclusion: Opportunistic conditions may lead to vascular abnormalities and subsequent stroke in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.