Scientists have discovered a way of using Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI scans to detect when Human Immunodeficiency Virus HIV is persistent in the brain after several treatment.
Presence of diffuse white matter in the brain shows sign of abnormalities that is linked to cognitive problems can be increased by inflammation in the brain caused by HIV infection.
To confirm HIV infection in the brain, lumbar puncture is perform by inserting a needle into the back of the head to draw spinal fluid and test it for HIV.
MRI scans can diagnose patients with elevated risk of HIV related problem, drugs that cross the blood-brain barrier effectively can be used to control the infection.