Introduction to opportunistic and co-infections in adults with HIV infection
The management of opportunistic and co-infections in adults with HIV infection is a specialised area—seek expert advice on patient management. Check for potential drug interactions when prescribing any drug for a person with HIV infection (see Antiretroviral drug interactions).
Note: Check for drug interactions before prescribing a drug for a person with HIV infection.
For management of opportunistic and co-infections in children with HIV infection, see the guidelines listed in Further reading.
This topic provides an overview of management of opportunistic and co-infections. Prevention of infection is included when applicable. For primary prophylaxis recommendations, see Primary prophylaxis in adults in with HIV infection.
The following opportunistic or co-infections in adults with HIV infection are discussed in this topic:
- candidiasis—oropharyngeal candidiasis and oesophageal candidiasis
- cryptococcal infections—cryptococcal meningitis and pulmonary cryptococcosis
- gastrointestinal protozoal infections—Cryptosporidium species, Cyclospora cayetanensis , Cystoisospora (Isospora) belli and microsporidia species
- cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- hepatitis B virus (HBV)
- hepatitis C virus (HCV)
- herpes simplex virus—genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) and oral mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus (HSV)
- Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC)
- tuberculosis
- Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP)
- Toxoplasma gondii encephalitis
- syphilis
- varicella-zoster virus—see chickenpox and shingles.