Priorities for Decreasing Morbidity and Mortality in Children With Advanced HIV Disease

Early mortality and morbidity remain high in children initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART), especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Many children still present with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. Tuberculosis, pneumonia, and severe bacterial infections are the main causes of hospital admission in HIV-infected children. In contrast to adults with advanced HIV disease, cryptococcal disease is not common in childhood, although there is a peak in infancy and adolescence. Interventions such as TB screening in symptomatic children, and isoniazid and cotrimoxazole prophylaxis should be implemented. There is evidence suggesting that rapid initiation (within 1 week) of ART in children with severe malnutrition or those with advanced HIV disease admitted to hospital is not beneficial and should be delayed until their condition has been stabilized. Research informing the prevention of severe bacterial infections, the management of pediatric immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, and other potential strategies to decrease morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected children are urgently needed.