The acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is characterised by a loss of normal cellular immunity in affected individuals which predisposes them to severe opportunistic infections and neoplasms. These pathological processes may affect the eye, and ocular involvement with an opportunistic infection or malignancy may be the first clue to the presence of AIDS. This article reviews the ocular manifestations of AIDS and concludes with infection control guidelines for ophthalmologists treating patients with AIDS and related conditions.