Human immunodeficiency virus infection and partner services: a monumental missed opportunity.

摘要

Although vertical (mother to child) human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission has been virtually eliminated in the United States,1 HIV incidence in adults has not been reduced,2 and HIV prevalence has increased as a result of case finding and the survival benefits of antiretroviral therapy (ART). In addition, a very substantial proportion of patients with HIV infection-at least 25% according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates-do not know their status. Consequently, most people with HIV continue to present to care with low CD4 count at the time of diagnosis, reflecting greatly delayed diagnosis and advanced HIV disease. People who do not know whether they have HIV infection and remain untreated can be expected to contribute substantially to ongoing transmission of infection.