HIV infection and AIDS are distinct conditions and carry different diagnostic criteria.
HIV refers to a virus that targets a specific type of white blood cell called CD4 cells within the body’s immune system. This virus weakens the immune system’s ability to combat infections and illnesses. While the body can effectively eliminate many viruses, certain viruses, including HIV, cannot be completely eradicated once contracted.
Nonetheless, the utilization of antiretroviral therapy can effectively mitigate the impact of the virus by impeding or halting its progression. Presently, treatment can significantly decrease the viral load in the bloodstream to undetectable levels. This ensures the preservation of the body’s overall health while preventing transmission of the virus.
On the other hand, AIDS refers to a syndrome or a range of symptoms that may manifest over time in individuals infected with HIV who do not receive treatment. It is important to note that HIV infection can exist without progressing to AIDS, but it is not possible to have AIDS without first acquiring HIV.
How is HIV different from AIDS?
Individuals who adhere to a successful treatment regimen significantly reduce their chances of developing AIDS.
However, if HIV is left untreated, it continues to harm the immune system, heightening the vulnerability to opportunistic infections or medical conditions. Certain ailments stemming from these infections can pose a severe threat to one’s life.
Opportunistic infections and diseases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source define opportunistic infections as “infections that occur more frequently and are more severe in individuals with weakened immune systems.”
Examples of opportunistic infections and other diseases that can develop in those with HIV include:
- cancers, such as invasive cervical cancer, lung cancer, Kaposi’s sarcoma, carcinomas, and lymphomas
- candidiasis, a fungal infection of the throat or lungs
- cytomegalovirus, a viral infection that can cause blindness and other complications
- pneumocystis pneumonia, a fungal form of pneumonia that can be fatal
- toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection of the brain
- tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection of the lungs
- cryptococcosis, a fungal infection that can lead to pneumonia
There may also be co-infections, which is when two infections tend to occur together, for exampleTrusted Source, TB and cryptococcal disease, or a combination of TB, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
AIDS: Stage 3 of HIV infection
AIDS represents the final stage (stage 3) of HIV infection, and its diagnosis is determined based on either the CD4 cell count or the presence of one or more opportunistic infections. Stage 1 corresponds to the acute stage of HIV infection, while stage 2 refers to the clinical latency stage. More details regarding these stages will be provided later in the article.
In healthy individuals, the CD4 cell count ranges from 500 to 1,600 cells per cubic millimeter of blood (cells/mm3). As per AIDS.gov, individuals with HIV are categorized as having developed AIDS when their CD4 cell count drops below 200 cells/mm3.
If left untreated, AIDS generally develops within a timeframe of 2 to 15 years Trusted Source after acquiring the HIV virus.
The rate of disease progression varies based on several factors, including the patient’s age, overall health, genetic factors, the presence of concurrent infections, and the level of healthcare received.
It is important to note that not all individuals with HIV will progress to AIDS. Those who adhere to medication regimens significantly reduce their chances of developing AIDS.
What does undetectable mean?
Modern treatment options have the capability to effectively lower HIV virus levels to the point where they become insignificant and undetectable in the bloodstream. When the virus is undetectable, it does not impede a person’s daily life, nor does it necessarily shorten their lifespan. Furthermore, at this stage, the virus becomes non-transmissible, meaning it cannot be transmitted to others.
By seeking early treatment and adhering to it consistently over the course of their life, individuals can typically anticipate a lifespan similar to that of someone without HIV.
Causes of HIV and AIDS
AIDS was initially identified as a distinct condition in 1981, when healthcare professionals began observing a higher incidence of opportunistic infections and cancers among specific groups of people.
Over time, it became evident that individuals infected with a retrovirus called human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) experienced a gradual decline in their immunity to certain diseases, leading to the development of AIDS.
HIV-1 is primarily transmitted among humans through the exchange of bodily fluids. This can occur through various means:
1. Sexual contact: HIV can be transmitted from one person to another through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse if the HIV-positive partner has detectable virus levels in their blood (above 200 copies per milliliter).
2. Pregnancy or childbirth: An HIV-positive mother, including those with AIDS, can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.
3. Blood transfusion: In developed countries, the risk of HIV transmission through blood transfusion is now extremely low due to stringent screening protocols.
4. Sharing syringes and needles: Sharing injection equipment with others significantly increases the risk of acquiring the virus.
Certain individuals should take special precautions, including:
– Those who handle needles or inject medication or drugs.
– Healthcare workers who come into contact with sharp objects.
– Individuals who provide or receive tattoos and piercings.
It is crucial to adhere to specific guidelines when using and disposing of needles and other sharp objects that may puncture the skin.
PrEP can offer protection
Individuals who are not HIV-positive but are at risk of contracting the virus can protect themselves by utilizing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) Trusted Source.
Truvada, a medication containing two active ingredients, tenofovir and emtricitabine, can prevent the virus from establishing itself in the body, even after exposure.
Consistent use of PrEP, as stated by the CDC, can reduce the risk of infection by up to 92 percent.
As per the 2019 guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, PrEP is recommended for individuals who have recently tested negative for HIV and are at high risk of acquiring the virus. It is advisable for these individuals to take PrEP once daily.
Symptoms of HIV and AIDS
Symptoms of HIV exhibit significant variation, influenced by factors such as the individual, viral management, and the stage of the condition.
It is important to note that not all individuals with HIV experience symptoms, especially during the early stages of infection. However, as the virus progresses and the immune system weakens, symptoms may become more noticeable.
Common symptoms of HIV can include:
1. Acute infection (early stage):
– Fever
– Fatigue
– Sore throat
– Muscle aches
– Rash
– Headache
2. Chronic infection (as the virus progresses):
– Persistent fatigue
– Swollen lymph nodes
– Recurring fever
– Night sweats
– Unintentional weight loss
– Diarrhea
– Persistent cough
It is important to remember that these symptoms can be indicative of various other illnesses as well. Only an HIV test can provide a definitive diagnosis. Furthermore, some individuals may experience long periods without noticeable symptoms, especially if they are receiving effective treatment for HIV.
If you suspect you may have been exposed to HIV or are experiencing any concerning symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper testing and evaluation.
Clinical latency stage symptoms
In stage 2 of HIV infection, the virus remains active but replicates at minimal levels. During this stage, individuals may experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Treatment with medication can effectively inhibit the progression of the virus and maintain it in this stage. By reducing the levels of the virus to undetectable levels, treatment ensures that it becomes non-transmissible and has no detrimental impact on the person’s health.
It is important for individuals in stage 2 of HIV infection to consult with healthcare professionals and initiate appropriate medical interventions to manage the virus effectively. Adhering to prescribed medication regimens can significantly improve health outcomes and overall well-being.
AIDS symptoms
AIDS is distinct from HIV and represents the final stage of the virus, having its own distinct diagnostic criteria.
During this stage, the immune system becomes highly vulnerable to a range of infections, leading to the manifestation of various symptoms that can differ significantly among individuals.
Some of the more commonly observed symptoms of AIDS include:
– Presence of skin blotches or lesions under the skin, in the mouth, or in the nose.
– Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.
– Chronic diarrhea.
– Persistent swelling of the lymph glands.
– Profound fatigue or extreme tiredness.
– Recurrent or persistent fever.
– Neurological issues, such as memory loss.
– Pneumonia or other severe respiratory infections.
– Rapid and unexplained weight loss.
– Sores or ulcers in the mouth, anus, or genital areas.
It is important to note that symptoms associated with AIDS can vary widely, and a formal diagnosis cannot be made solely based on symptom presentation. Diagnostic tests are necessary to confirm the presence of AIDS. If you suspect you may have AIDS or are experiencing concerning symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and testing.
Diagnosis
Symptoms alone are not sufficient to determine whether a person has HIV or AIDS. The reason for this is that symptoms can vary widely among individuals and can also be indicative of other medical conditions. Therefore, a formal diagnosis of HIV or AIDS cannot be based solely on symptoms.
Accurate diagnosis of HIV or AIDS requires specific laboratory tests that detect the presence of the virus or measure the immune response. These tests may include HIV antibody tests, antigen/antibody tests, viral load tests, or CD4 cell counts. Only through proper testing and evaluation by healthcare professionals can a conclusive diagnosis be made.
If someone suspects they may have been exposed to HIV or if they are experiencing symptoms of concern, it is crucial to seek medical advice and undergo appropriate testing for an accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosis of HIV
HIV is diagnosed through a blood test or oral swab that detects the presence of antibodies produced by the body in response to the virus, as well as specific viral proteins generated during replication.
The time required for these antibodies to become detectable in the blood can vary, ranging from several weeks to a few months. Depending on the timing of initial exposure, repeat testing may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
It is important to emphasize the significance of early testing, as it allows for the prompt implementation of an appropriate treatment plan to prevent further progression of the virus. Moreover, individuals who undergo testing soon after exposure have a lower risk of transmitting the virus to others since effective treatment can be initiated.
Self-testing kits for HIV are available for purchase online, but it is crucial to ensure that these kits are approved by regulatory bodies such as the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure their reliability and accuracy. Consulting a healthcare professional and utilizing approved testing methods are recommended for accurate HIV diagnosis and appropriate care.
Diagnosis of AIDS
Indeed, if an individual with HIV receives a CD4 cell count result of less than 200 cells/mm3 or experiences specific opportunistic infections, they will be diagnosed with AIDS. The CD4 cell count serves as a crucial indicator of the immune system’s functionality, and a count below 200 cells/mm3 signifies a significant weakening of the immune system.
The presence of certain opportunistic infections or conditions further confirms the diagnosis of AIDS. These infections and conditions take advantage of the weakened immune system in individuals with advanced HIV infection. Examples of such opportunistic infections include certain types of pneumonia, tuberculosis, Kaposi’s sarcoma, cytomegalovirus infection, and toxoplasmosis, among others.
Reaching the threshold of a CD4 cell count below 200 cells/mm3 or experiencing specific opportunistic infections signifies the transition from HIV to AIDS. It is crucial for individuals in this situation to receive appropriate medical care and support to manage their condition effectively.
Treatment
With proper treatment plans and early intervention, individuals living with HIV can experience a good quality of life. Treatment is typically provided by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, extending beyond doctors.
In the past, individuals with HIV often progressed to AIDS within a few years. However, due to the availability of effective treatment, many people with HIV will never develop AIDS. Without treatment, a person who develops AIDS can expect to live for around three years, unless they encounter life-threatening complications.
The cornerstone of HIV treatment is medication, specifically antiretroviral therapy (ART). Once treatment is initiated, it is crucial to maintain consistent adherence to prevent the development of drug resistance.
Most individuals with HIV or AIDS utilize a combination of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) drugs, which effectively slow down the progression of the virus. The specific medication regimen is tailored to suit each individual’s needs and must be taken continuously throughout their lifetime. It is important to follow the prescribed treatment plan and engage in regular medical follow-ups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and make any necessary adjustments.
HIV prevention
There are several important steps that can be taken to prevent the contraction of HIV:
1. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): Regularly taking PrEP medication can prevent HIV from developing, even if an individual is exposed to the virus.
2. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): This is an emergency treatment given to reduce the likelihood of HIV infection after potential exposure to the virus. PEP should be initiated within 72 hours of exposure and completed as a full 28-day course of treatment. It has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection by over 80 percent, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
3. Condom use: Using condoms during sexual intercourse can provide protection against various infections, including HIV.
4. Pregnancy precautions: For pregnant individuals with HIV, medications can be used to prevent the transmission of the virus to the child. Additional measures such as cesarean delivery and avoiding breastfeeding in certain situations can further reduce the risk of transmission. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best options for each individual. With effective prenatal treatment, many women living with HIV can have healthy babies who are not infected with the virus.
5. Avoiding needle sharing: Engaging in needle exchange programs or using sterile needles can help reduce the need for sharing syringes and needles, which can lead to HIV transmission.
6. Reducing exposure to bodily fluids: Healthcare workers should follow safety precautions, such as wearing gloves, masks, and other barrier protections, to minimize the risk of exposure to blood-borne infections, including HIV. Regularly and thoroughly washing the skin after contact with bodily fluids is also recommended.
For individuals diagnosed with HIV, seeking early treatment and adhering to the recommended treatment plan can delay or prevent the development of AIDS. Additionally, avoiding exposure to other infections and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial in supporting the immune system and overall well-being.
