HIV-associated distal symmetrical polyneuropathy: clinical features and nursing management.

DSPN is a common manifestation of HIV infection and/or its treatment that can have adverse effects on quality of life and functional status. The pathogenesis remains unclear but likely involves the elaboration of neurotoxic inflammatory cytokines and their metabolites. DSPN is often refractory to available pharmacological treatments, although new treatments involving NGF hold promise for effecting sustained symptom relief and reversing axonal degeneration. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy of nonpharmacological treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapies, to alleviate DSPN-associated pain.