Opportunistic AIDS-associated malignancies in HIV-infected patients

Three major neoplasms are associated with AIDS definition in the course of HIV infection due to their increased incidence. The relationship between the immune system and the epidemiology of these virus-induced tumors is of importance in order to identify new therapeutic approaches for treating or preventing these neoplasms. Major improvements in the understanding of the pathogenesis have already been performed. The impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on their incidence likely confirms the concept of ‘opportunistic malignancies’. Other neoplasms are likely more prevalent in HIV-infected individuals, but their relative importance requires further prospective case-control cohort studies.