Introduction: HIV­1 probably originated from one or more cross­species transfers from chimpanzees in central Africa. HIV­2 is closely related to viruses that infect sooty mangabeys in western Africa.Genetically, HIV­1 and HIV­2 are superficially similar, but each contains unique genes and its own distinct replication process. HIV­ 2 carries a slightly lower risk of transmission, and HIV­2 infection tends to progress more slowly to acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Methodology: Based on the selection criteria HIV positive patients with lymph node enlargement underwent clinical examination and the history was taken. Laboratory findings were carried out for these patients like routine haematological tests, CD4 T cell count. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology was carried out. In patients with more than one group of lymph node enlargement, representative nodes (larger in the group) were chosen from each group and were subjected to FNAC. Results: In this study 50.67% had reactive lymphadenitis followed by tubercular (38.67%), granulomatous lymphadenitis (8%), non Hodgkin’s lymphoma (1.33%) and secondary metastases (1.33%). Conclusion: Most infectious causes of HIV lymphadenopathy can be correctly identified, in which the patients can commence prompt treatment for lifethreatening infections.

Keywords: FNAC; Lymph Nodes; HIV.