Pediatric HIVPediatric HIVPediatric HIVPediatric HIV

PhysiotherapyPhysiotherapyJune 12, 2009June 12, 2009

Vera CarminiVera Carmini

transmission• HIV virus can be transmitted from

mother to baby during pregnancy, at birth, or through breastfeeding.

• Keeping mother’s viral load low will decrease the change of the virus transmission to the baby

The virus and the child• HIV - & exposed to ARV• HIV +

– Suppressed – Unsuppressed

Clinical presentation• Feeding problems• HIV encephalopathy• Cardiorespiratory issues• MSK issues

Role of PT• Assessment• Intervention• Follow-up

Intervention• Neurodevelopment• Pain management• Range of Motion & Strengthening

exercises• Posture & alignment• Aerobic fitness • Environment modification to facilitate

function

Burdens• Secrecy

– Undisclosed– disclosed

• School– Missing days– Friends relationship

• Teens issues– Dating– Transition

What helps with transition

• Transfer reminders• Checklists• Certificates• Information letter

Transition to Adult care• Is the system prepared for them?• Are they prepared to face the

system? • Educational material

Educators

– Basic knowledge– Stigma– Treatment– Outcome– Support