Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in homosexual men--a new public health concern.

The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a new, serious condition of major public health concern. It is most prevalent among young homosexuals and may be present with Kaposi's sarcoma and serious opportunistic infections. Physicians dealing with male homosexuals should be aware of this diagnostic possibility in any patient with unusual skin lesions or unusual clinical findings indicating infection. AIDS may be preceded by persistent generalized lymphadenopathy which may be accompanied by fatigue, low grade fever, night sweats and weight loss. The prognosis is poor with high mortality rates and no indication of spontaneous recovery of cellular immunocompetence.