Also referred to as aids dementia complex (ADC). A rapidly progressive subcortical dementia characterized by 1) cognitive deficits such as inattentiveness, impaired concentration and problem solving, forgetfulness, and impaired reading; 2) motor abnormalities such as tremors, slurred speech, ataxia, and generalized hyperreflexia; and 3) behavioral changes such as sluggishness and social withdrawal. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) usually indicate brain atrophy along with an enlargement of the ventricles.
HIV dementia characteristically begins with impaired concentration and mild memory loss. Over a period of several weeks or months, the condition progresses to severe global cognitive impairment.