Neurological development of children who are HIV‐exposed and uninfected

Widespread use of antiretroviral drugs for pregnant/breastfeeding females with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has led to declining vertical transmission. Despite being HIV-uninfected, the increasing number children who are HIV-exposed and uninfected (CHEU) often present developmental alterations. We review seminal recent evidence on neurological development CHEU associations early life HIV/antiretroviral exposure. Our conceptual model highlights numerous exposures universal risk factors disorders. Early studies suggest a significant association between HIV exposure abnormalities, varying according burden HIV-specific other factors. More observations from modern era inconsistent, although some specific antiretrovirals may adversely affect CHEU. As population continues grow, alongside simultaneous increases in types combinations used pregnancy, long-term monitoring is necessary understanding effects outcomes. What this paper adds Evidence (HIV)-exposed synthesized. Comparisons made HIV-unexposed, across treatment eras settings, by drug regimens classes. complex include which during years life.