Psychiatric aspects of comorbid HIV/AIDS and pain, Part 2.

The high prevalence, underassessment, and undertreatment of pain throughout the course of HIV disease make understanding the barriers and inequalities in HIV/AIDS-related pain care essential. There is a tremendous need for integrated implementation of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions. Part 2 of this review aims to discuss mood, anxiety, and substance abuse assessments; barriers to care; and psychiatric treatments in the context of HIV-AIDS-related pain. Recommendations are made from the gathered data that highlight the need for an interdisciplinary comprehensive approach to managing pain in HIV disease. Further research is needed to examine the relationship of pain and psychiatric issues in order to formulate effective treatment strategies.