[AIDS and the heart].

The authors present an historical introduction, a geographic description and an epidemiologic review of AIDS in Portugal and in the world. After HIV presentation, a laboratory and clinic approach to this syndrome is done, discussing its systemic manifestations. A special interest is given to the different aspects of cardiac lesions particularly its myocardial involvement. Analysing therapeutic results, despite of dismal present of clinic investigation, some hope is being invested in future achievements.