Reviewed by Susa Coffey, MD

Comment

This editorial is a useful discussion of the "New York Case," a case that was widely-publicized in some aspects of the media as representing the emergence of a frightening HIV "supervirus." It highlights the key features of the case, including transmitted multi-drug resistance, rapid disease progression, and dual receptor tropism. It establishes a context for evaluating aspects of the case that are unusual but not unprecedented. In addition, it offers a measured view of the public health risk represented by such a case (not proven), and critiques the public announcement of the case and the dramatic media response to it (as unnecessary and unfortunate). Lastly, it notes the poor success of HIV prevention efforts and the threat that methamphetamine abuse (a key feature in this case) poses to consistent condom use and to medication adherence.

Review of and reflection on the issues discussed in this editorial should help clinicians address the questions about this case that our patients continue to pose.