Otorhinolaryngologic manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus infection

Abstract

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a global pandemic, affecting 38 million people worldwide. In Chile, its incidence has risen continuously, increasing to 57% from 2010 to 2019, with 74,000 infected people in the country. Head and neck manifestations account to 80% of HIV patients. These manifestations may be present during the acute retroviral syndrome, in more advanced stages, even as a debut, or appear in treatment failure or complications secondary to the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. With the increase in antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage, the prevalence of otorhinolaryngological manifestations has changed. Oral lesions may be an early sign for advanced stages or treatment failure, with a predominance of candidiasis and hairy leukoplakia. Rhinitis and rhinosinusitis are the main manifestations in the sinonasal area, lymphadenopathy and parotid hypertrophy in the neck, and hearing loss, vestibular and middle ear disorders in the ear. It is essential for otorhinolaryngologists to be aware of these manifestations in order to maintain a high index of clinical suspicion, allowing an early diagnosis and opportune treatment to improve the patient’s quality of life. In addition, a close follow-up is required to identify early signs of treatment failure or progression to more advanced stages.