Children with AIDS.

The etiologic agent for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has been identified as human T lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III). Its distinguishing characteristics and putative receptor, the T4 molecule, are discussed. The Western Blot method has been applied to assess the presence of antibody to HTLV-III in patients as a measure of infection with HTLV-III. The definition of AIDS in children, based on the Centers for Disease Control surveillance criteria, is explored and expanded. Clinical and laboratory manifestations of pediatric AIDS are explained in the context of 'HTLV-III infection' through an analysis of prospective and retrospective serologic studies. Transmission of the disease is explored through parental history of infected children. Finally, the rationale for antibody replacement therapy is set forth.