First case of sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus in mainland China.

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an infectious disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The main route of HIV transmission is through sexual contact. In Africa HIV infection is prevalent among heterosexuals while in Europe and America most cases of AIDS will occur among homosexual men. Recently the authors screened 67 syphilis patients who came to the outpatient department between April 1986-May 1989 for HIV antibodies in the sera. Anti-HIV antibodies were found in 1 case. This is the 1st case of HIV infection through sexual transmission in mainland China. (authors)