Pathogenesis and risk of HIV infection in women – review of recent literature

Abstract

Summary In Poland, as well as worldwide, HIV prevalence is increasing among women and their children. Women acquire the infection mainly through heterosexual contacts, while children get it from their mothers. Identification of the factors leading to the infection is essential in order to work out effective strategies for prevention of HIV transmission among women and children. In Polish literature there are no detailed clinical guidelines how to prevent mother-to-child HIV infection – a fact which is not without meaning as it put Poland in an unfavourable position when comparing to other European countries with a higher number of infected children. In this review authors present recent data concerning women susceptibility to HIV infection, virus pathogenesis, the role of co-infections with other pathogens, as well as the role of sex hormones on HIV infection risk. Authors hope that the information will help to establish Polish standards on prevention of HIV infection in women and their children, and that they will soon be put into practice.