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Mother to Child Transmission of HIV

Julie J. Kelsey, PharmD

Transmission of HIV from mother to child remains a global priority, despite the fact that highly active antiretroviral therapy has dramatically reduced the number of infants born HIV-infected in the Western world. A significant number of children worldwide continue to become infected with the virus daily. Studies examining several modified therapies during pregnancy and labor have shown a considerable reduction in the transmission rate. Beyond drug therapy, factors such as viral load, maternal disease, cesarean deliveries, and placental infection also play important roles in transmission. Breastfeeding continues to be a large source of transmission to infants in less developed countries. New studies are examining components in breast milk and drug therapy in an attempt to prevent maternal-child transmission.

Key Words: HIV • pregnancy • lactation • anti-HIV therapy • vertical transmission

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