What is required in the diagnosis of Major or Mild NCD due to HIV infection?

The correct answer is based on the necessity of documented HIV infection as a diagnostic criterion for Major or Mild Neurocognitive Disorder (NCD) due to HIV infection. The DSM-5-TR specifies that the presence of significant cognitive impairment or decline must be directly linked to a confirmed diagnosis of HIV. This connection ensures that the cognitive changes observed can be attributed to the neurocognitive effects of the virus rather than other potential causes.

In the context of neurocognitive disorders, merely having cognitive impairments is not sufficient for a diagnosis; there must be clear evidence that HIV is the underlying cause. This requirement supports the need for a focused approach to treatment and management tailored to individuals with HIV-related neurocognitive impairments.

While physical medical signs, chronic substance abuse history, and evidence of motor features may play roles in the broader assessments of cognitive functioning or may relate to other disorders, they are not necessary for establishing the diagnosis of Major or Mild NCD due to HIV infection. The emphasis here is on the documented presence of the viral infection itself, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.