HIV/AIDS Introduction and Lifecycle

Study Notes

HIV/AIDS: Introduction and Basic Concepts

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a retrovirus that weakens the immune system by infecting and destroying CD4+ T cells.
HIV infection progresses to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) if left untreated.
AIDS is a complex condition characterized by severe immune deficiency and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections, malignancies, and wasting syndromes.
HIV transmission occurs primarily through bodily fluids containing HIV, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
High-risk behaviors include unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing contaminated needles, and mother-to-child transmission.
HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as shaking hands, coughing, or sharing utensils.

HIV Lifecycle

HIV attaches to CD4+ T cells using specific surface proteins.
Viral RNA is converted to DNA using the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
This DNA is integrated into the host cell's DNA by integrase.
New viral RNA and proteins are produced, assembling new HIV virions.
These new virions bud from the infected cell, often killing the cell in the process.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) targets various steps in this lifecycle, inhibiting viral replication.

AIDS: Opportunistic Infections and Symptoms

Patients with advanced HIV/AIDS have severely compromised immune function and are vulnerable to opportunistic infections.
Common opportunistic infections include pneumonia (e.g., Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia), tuberculosis, and certain fungal infections.
HIV/AIDS can also lead to cancers, such as Kaposi's sarcoma.
Symptoms of HIV/AIDS can vary, encompassing fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats, diarrhea, and skin rashes.
Without treatment, HIV can progress over years, severely impacting quality of life and leading to death.

HIV Testing and Diagnosis

Accurate HIV testing is essential for early detection and treatment.
Antibody tests detect HIV antibodies in the blood, which typically develop several weeks or months after infection.
Antigens, parts of the virus itself, are also used in some advanced HIV tests.
Rapid diagnostic tests provide quick results, enabling early intervention.
Confirmation of a positive antibody test typically involves a second, more sensitive test.

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)

ART is a combination of medications that suppress HIV replication.
ART reduces viral load, increases CD4+ cell count, and improves immune function.
ART significantly prolongs survival time and prevents disease progression to AIDS.
ART regimens often involve multiple drugs to minimize the development of drug resistance.
Consistent adherence to ART is crucial for effectiveness and preventing resistance.

Prevention and Public Health Strategies

Prevention strategies encompass safe sex practices, needle exchange programs, reducing risky behaviors, and mother-to-child transmission prevention programs.
Education campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of HIV transmission and prevention are vital.
Increased availability of HIV testing and access to treatment is crucial for controlling the pandemic.
Condoms and other barrier methods are key for preventing sexual transmission.

Description

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of HIV/AIDS, including how the virus attacks the immune system and progresses to AIDS. It also explores the lifecycle of HIV, detailing its mechanism of infection and replication. Test your understanding of these critical health topics and their implications.