Hiv Aids (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

Description

HIV infection is a life threatening disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The condition gradually destroys the immune system, preventing the body from fighting off infections. Most patients die of an overwhelming infection. There is no cure or vaccine but special anti-viral medications can keep the virus under control.

Symptoms

Symptoms related to HIV infection include: diarrhea, fatigue, fever, frequent vaginal yeast infections, headache, mouth sores, including candidal infection, muscular stiffness or aching, rash of various types, including seborrheic dermatitis, sore throat, swollen lymph glands. Other symptoms may occur when a patient becomes infected with other bacteria or fungi.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. The HIV ELISA/Western blot test is used to detect antibodies to the HIV virus. If the test is negative and there are risk factors for HIV infection, the test should be repeated in 3 months. Other tests can be done to detect how much HIV is in the blood. A CD4 count is done to determine how much the immune system has been damaged.

Treatment

Therapy depends on the number of infection fighting cells called CD4 cells and by the presence of other infections. Anti-retro viral medications are generally recommended for CD4 counts less than 350 cell/ml. These medications are also suggested for pregnant patients and for those with kidney or neurologic HIV related disease. Other anti-viral, antibiotics, or anti-fungal medications may be prescribed for those infected with other infections. Project Inform HIV/AIDS Treatment Hotline: (800)822-7422 American Social Health Association: (800)227-8922 CDC National Prevention Information Network: (800)458-5231

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