Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) when it has severely damaged the immune system. AIDS is considered the most advanced stage of HIV infection and is characterized by the occurrence of certain opportunistic infections, cancers, and other conditions.
People with AIDS have weakened immune systems and are susceptible to many infections and diseases that do not usually affect people with healthy immune systems. Some common opportunistic infections associated with AIDS include Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, tuberculosis, and certain types of cancer, such as Kaposi’s sarcoma.
Before the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART), AIDS was often fatal. However, with effective treatment, people living with HIV can prevent the progression to AIDS and live long and healthy lives. ART works by suppressing the replication of HIV, thereby preserving the immune system and reducing the risk of opportunistic infections and other complications associated with AIDS.
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a condition caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). AIDS is characterized by a severely weakened immune system, which makes the infected person vulnerable to a wide range of opportunistic infections and cancers.
AIDS is considered the most advanced stage of HIV infection. When left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS in 10-15 years, though with modern treatments, the progression can be significantly delayed or halted entirely.
A person is considered to have AIDS when their CD4+ T cell count falls below 200 cells/mm3 (normal range: 500-1,600 cells/mm3), or when they develop an AIDS-defining illness, such as tuberculosis or certain types of cancers.
While there is no cure for AIDS, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can slow down the progression of the disease and prolong life. With proper treatment and care, people living with AIDS can manage their symptoms and live longer, healthier lives. Prevention measures like using condoms during sexual intercourse and avoiding sharing needles or injection equipment can help reduce the risk of HIV transmission and the development of AIDS.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a medical condition caused by infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV attacks the immune system, and if left untreated, can progress to AIDS.
AIDS is characterized by severe damage to the immune system, leaving individuals vulnerable to life-threatening infections and cancers. Symptoms of AIDS can include persistent fever, night sweats, rapid weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and skin rashes.
A diagnosis of AIDS is typically made when a person living with HIV develops one or more opportunistic infections or cancers that are indicative of a severely weakened immune system. These can include infections like tuberculosis, cryptococcal meningitis, and Pneumocystis pneumonia, as well as cancers like Kaposi’s sarcoma.
While there is no cure for AIDS, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS. Additionally, treating opportunistic infections and cancers can help manage symptoms and prolong survival. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, many people with HIV/AIDS can live long and healthy lives.