Head and neck manifestations of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in children

The head-and-neck manifestations of HIV infection in children are very different from those in the adult population. Recurrent bacterial and viral infections are common manifestations, and persistent sinusitis or otitis media should make the otolaryngologist suspicious of HIV infection if the child has been exposed to the virus. Other common problems include mucocutaneous and esophageal candidiasis, recurrent herpes I and II and zoster infections, parotid swelling, and cervical lymphadeopathy.