Other factors may relate to the gradual increase in total virus load within an infected individual over time, leading to increased levels of potentially neurotoxic factors produced by the virus or infected cells. The initial symptoms of AIDS dementia are usually mild and occur gradually. The early symptoms may include memory loss, impaired mental concentration, and slowness in performing mental tasks. For example, affected individuals may feel less quick in their thinking or notice that they lose track during conversation or while reading. Family members and friends may notice behavioral abnormalities, such as personality changes, loss of interest in activities, or social withdrawal.
Depression is another common symptom.
However, depression can also be caused by the psychological stress of HIV infection and is not invariably attributable to AIDS dementia. Computer-colorized electron micrograph of HIV viral particles budding from an infected cell. Individuals whose cognitive symptoms remain relatively mild may experience little impairment. However, in more severely affected individuals, the disorder may progress relentlessly over several months, leading to marked cognitive impairment and significant neurological disability. In the advanced stages, patients can also develop weakness, tremor, rigidity, and seizures.