Revised pediatric HIV classification system

Resident: J. Hencler
Date: 02/26/2010

Article title: Revised pediatric HIV classification system
Author(s): AAPD
Journal: Pediatric Dentistry-18:2,1996

Major topic: HIV
Type of Article: Revision

Key points in the article discussion:
In 1994, a new classification system for pediatric HIV replaced the 1987 system (see tables)

Category N (not symptomatic): Includes children who have no signs or symptoms considered to be the result of HIV infection or who have only one of the conditions listed in Category A.

Category A (mildly symptomatic): Children with two or more of the conditions listed below but none of the conditions listed in Categories B and C. (see list)

Category B (moderately symptomatic): Children who have symptomatic conditions other than those listed for Category A or C that are attributed to HIV infection. Examples of conditions in clinical Category B include but are not limited to: (see list)

Category C (severely symptomatic): Serious bacterial infections, multiple or recurrent (i.e., any combination of at least two culture-confirmed infections within a 2-year period), of the following types: septicemia, pneumonia, meningitis, bone or joint infection, or abscess of an internal organ or body cavity (excluding otitis media, superficial skin or mucosal abscesses, and indwelling catheter-related infections). (see list)

Summary of conclusions: New pediatric HIV classification system is simpler. It would be good to have a reference manual if needed.

Assessment of article: This revision of the pediatric HIV classification system is good to be aware of because many signs and symptoms of HIV infection can manifest in the oral cavity. This classification is also pertinent to us as pediatric dentists when consulting with a Pediatrician about a child’s HIV status and severity.