HIV + Neurosyphillis + Lyme Dz

Question 1

what medications have been shown to be effective for treating depression in HIV positive patients

Answer 1

stimulants–> dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate

Question 2

what cognitive function is relatively preserved in those who have HIV related cognitive dysfunction

Answer 2

tend to have fewer problems with recall of learned information

language difficulties are uncommon

Question 3

what HIV medication should be avoided in those with hx mental illness esp. schizophrenia and why

Answer 3

Efavirenz–> an ARV combo therapy

can cause acute psychosis resembling LSD intake as well as nightmares occurring for several days up to 4 weeks after start of therapy

Question 4

how do you test for neurosyphillis

Answer 4

Enzyme immunoassay followed by RPR if EIA screen is reactive