Update on AIDS for the family physician.

Infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus-I (HIV-I) results in a wide spectrum of clinical disease. Many patients remain clinically well, although they may be infectious to others. These patients may, however, suffer from the psychological effects of knowing they have been infected with the virus. Others may develop symptoms, and many develop fatal opportunistic infections and malignant disease. The primary-care physician must be able to educate, to alleviate fear and misunderstanding, and to provide optimal medical and palliative care.