Point-of care ultrasound for the diagnosis and management of infections in immunocompromised patients and HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has become an essential tool in the diagnosis and management of infections in immunocompromised patients, including those with HIV. Despite the existence of several ultrasound protocols, an infection-specific protocol has not yet been developed. In immunocompromised patients, POCUS allows early identification of infectious processes. Ultrasound findings may not differ from those of the general population, but their interpretation does. They are more prone to infection by unusual microorganisms, involvement of unusual territories and formation of abscesses or masses of infectious origin. It is particularly useful for identifying signs of infection, such as consolidations and effusions. In immunocompromised patients, its usefulness varies according to the level of immunosuppression, being especially valuable in the identification of opportunistic infections. Including HIV, transplanted, hematological or autoimmune diseases patients, it facilitates a rapid and accurate assessment, guiding diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.