Questions and Answers
What does the term 'AIDS' refer to?
What stage of HIV infection is commonly recognized as AIDS?
Which of the following correctly describes HIV?
What is a key factor in diagnosing AIDS?
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Which condition is NOT classified as an opportunistic infection (OI) associated with AIDS?
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What is the estimated percentage of patients with advanced AIDS who develop eye disorders?
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How does AIDS primarily affect the immune system?
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Which of the following is a common eye issue related to AIDS?
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What is the primary distinction between AIDS and HIV?
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What characteristic of HIV contributes to its ability to undermine the immune system?
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Which of the following symptoms is NOT commonly associated with HIV?
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Which method does NOT transmit HIV?
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What happens to a person who is HIV-positive over time?
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Which of the following best describes opportunistic infections in the context of HIV?
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What genetic material does HIV contain?
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What is true about AIDS once an individual is diagnosed?
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Study Notes
Understanding AIDS and HIV
- AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) results from the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection, leading to severe immune system impairment.
- AIDS signifies the final stage of HIV infection, marked by a collapse of the immune defense and increased susceptibility to diseases.
- The immune deficiency results in organ failure and can ultimately lead to death.
Characteristics of HIV
- HIV is a retrovirus with RNA as its genetic material.
- It infects and destroys immune cells, particularly T lymphocytes, diminishing the body's ability to combat infections.
- The transmission primarily occurs through contact with infected blood, bodily fluids, and during childbirth or breastfeeding.
Importance of Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is critical when certain opportunistic infections (OIs) arise or when CD4 cell counts drop below 200 cells/ml of blood.
- Common opportunistic infections include Kaposi sarcoma, Cytomegalovirus, Pneumocystis pneumonia, and Candidiasis.
Impact on Vision
- Approximately 70% of patients with advanced AIDS experience eye disorders due to a compromised immune response.
- AIDS-related eye conditions include:
- HIV retinopathy
- Detached retina
- CMV retinitis
- Kaposi sarcoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva
Symptoms of HIV/AIDS
- Symptoms vary widely among individuals; some may remain asymptomatic for years.
- Common symptoms include:
- Fever and chills
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue and muscle aches
- Rash
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Sore throat and blurred vision
- Night sweats and swollen glands
Differences Between HIV and AIDS
- HIV is the virus that leads to AIDS by progressively weakening the immune system.
- An individual may be HIV-positive without developing AIDS for many years, as HIV can be managed effectively in some cases.
Modes of Transmission
- HIV spreads through:
- Unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Receiving contaminated blood transfusions
Current Status of Treatment
- There is no cure for AIDS; once contracted, it remains a lifelong condition.
- Early detection and treatment can manage HIV and prevent progression to AIDS, but opportunistic infections can still threaten health as the immune system deteriorates.
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Description
This quiz explores the complexities of AIDS, a condition caused by the HIV virus, which severely weakens the immune system. Learn about the stages of HIV infection, the implications of having AIDS, and the underlying biological factors involved. Test your knowledge on this critical health issue.
