HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus and is a retrovirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. According to Childrenshosptital.org, there are 6,000 to 7,000 infants who are born to HIV-infected mothers each year in the United States. Most HIV infections in infants are caused by vertical transmission of HIV, which means that HIV is transmitted to infants during pregnancy, vaginal birth and breast feeding. HIV-infected infants may have obvious symptoms of HIV infection.
Enlarged Abdomen
Childrenshospital.org, states that HIV-infected infants may have swollen abdomen due to the enlargement of the spleen and liver. The spleen is an organ that plays a key role in preventing infections by producing blood cells called lymphocytes, which defend the body against HIV. The liver may enlarge in HIV positive infants due to impairment of liver functions caused by HIV.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
According to Childrenshospital.org, HIV may cause lymph nodes of the neck, cheeks, arms and groins to swell in HIV infected infants. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system and play a role in protecting the body against invading pathogens. Swollen lymph nodes are usually the earliest signs of HIV infection in infants.
Oral Thrush
According to Childrenshospital.org, HIV may cause oral thrush in HIV-infected infants. Oral thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth that is characterized by white patches on the cheeks and tongue.Oral thrush occurs when there is lowered body immunity due to conditions such as HIV and cancer. Oral lesions are painful to infants and may cause feeding problems.
Failure to Thrive
According to the Thebody.com, HIV causes failure to thrive in HIV-infected infants as evidenced by poor weight gain and lack of bone growth. Failure to thrive is a medical term applied to infants or children whose current weight or rate of weight gain is significantly below that of infants or children of similar age and sex.
