Clinical case definition of AIDS in Africa

In the absence of known causes of immunosuppression, e.g. cancer or malnutrition, AIDS in an adult is defined by the existence of at least two major signs with at least one minor sign. In addition generalised Kaposi's sarcoma or cryptococcal meningitis is sufficient for the diagnosis of AIDS.

Major signs:

• greater than 10% loss in body weight
• chronic diarrhoea for more than 1 month
• prolonged intermittent or constant fever for more than 1 month

Minor signs:

• persistent cough for more than 1 month
• generalised pruritic dermatitis
• recurrent Herpes zoster
• oropharyngeal candidosis
• chronic progressive and disseminated herpes simplex infection
• generalised lymphadenopathy