2021 Volume 67 Issue 1 Pages 26-30
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) lowers the immune capacity of the host and causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) when it progresses. HIV infection is known to have a variety of symptoms, and it is often diagnosed based on the occurrence of various otorhinolaryngological conditions. We experienced a case in which an HIV infection was diagnosed based on delayed wound healing after tonsillectomy. The early initiation of treatment for HIV infection is known to be effective for controlling progression, so it is important to detect HIV infection as early as possible. Preoperative HIV screening tests may lead to the early detection of HIV, and such tests are also important to prevent delayed wound healing. In Japan, it remains a problem that preoperative HIV screening is sometimes not allowed under by the Japanese National health insurance system.
