Because there are many different manifestations of ADC, the syndrome is poorly understood and has been reported and described in a variety of conflicting ways. This article will attempt to illuminate some of the complicated issues surrounding AIDS-related dementia in adults, as well as the treatment options which are available. Background and Symptoms Nervous system and mental diseases thought to be associated with, or caused by, HIV have been reported since the earliest days of the epidemic. Such manifestations were given a variety of names and descriptions by many different researchers. In 1985, Drs.
Cognition is the process of acquiring knowledge.
It is defined as awareness, perception, judgment, and memory. Behavioral changes in ADC are the least understood and least defined. They can best be characterized as impairments in the ability to perform common tasks and activities of daily living. Motor impairments is often characterized by incontinence, paralysis and loss of control of the legs, and stiff, awkward, or markedly slow movements. In ADC, affect impairment is characterized by severe mental conditions, such as depression, psychosis, and mania.