What neurological condition can occur as a result of HIV infection?

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are a set of cognitive impairments that occur as a result of HIV infection and its effects on the central nervous system. These disorders can range from mild to severe and include issues with memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. The pathophysiology behind HAND involves the direct effects of the virus on brain cells, as well as the inflammatory response triggered by the infection. As HIV progresses, factors such as opportunistic infections and the effects of antiretroviral therapy on the brain can further exacerbate cognitive decline.

This condition highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring of neurological health in individuals living with HIV. It emphasizes how the virus is not solely an immunological concern, but can also significantly impact neurological functioning, leading to both cognitive and behavioral symptoms.

The other conditions listed, although they are neurological in nature, are not directly caused by HIV. Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease have their own distinct etiologies and are not considered sequelae of HIV infection.