Coordination of care for pediatric AIDS: the development of a Maternal-Child HIV Task Force
Stuber, M.L.
Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Jdbp 10(4): 201-204
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0196-206X PMID: 2768488 Document Number: 200802
As of 1988, 78% of all reported pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections were secondary to maternal transmission. With blood screening and treatment of Factor 8 essentially eliminating transfusion as a vector for HIV, the issues of obstetrical and pediatric HIV infections are functionally identical. This paper describes one institution's approach to the coordination of clinical care and research between obstetrics and pediatrics. The development of Maternal-Child HIV Task Force has facilitated cooperative submission of studies, and the mutual education and support requires to sustain competent and caring clinical care. Direct patient care is similarly coordinated through the Maternal-Children Immunology Clinic, where an interdisciplinary group of medical and clinical specialists provide comprehensive care for these children and mothers. Suggestions are made for other institutions encountering similar tissues.