HIV and the dental undergraduate.

Abstract

Reasons are offered as to why it is imperative that the dental undergraduate is familiar with all aspects of AIDS. The epidemiology of the disease is discussed, as are methods of transmission of the virus. A classification is given of the clinical presentation of HIV infection. The classification is based on the system put forward by the Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta. A brief résumé is given of laboratory diagnosis in HIV infection, and of the risk of health care workers contracting the disease. The precautions recommended for use in dentistry as proposed by the Centers for Disease Control are quoted in full. Finally mention is made of the treatment and control of AIDS.