Painful joints are usually the first and most common symptom.
The cause of HIV-associated rheumatic disease syndromes is not clearly defined. Available evidence suggests several direct and indirect causes from HIV infection. The presence of a rheumatic disorder worsens the prognosis of HIV infection. The diagnosis is confirmed by the appropriate tests for HIV infection and for the rheumatic disorder. Most patients respond to conventional therapy with a combination of pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.