HIV Flashcards
What does it mean to be HIV positive?
Being infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which attacks and destroys CD4 T-helper cells in the immune system.
What happens if HIV is not treated?
It progresses to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), where the immune system becomes severely compromised, leading to opportunistic infections and AIDS-defining illnesses.
What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. AIDS occurs when HIV progresses and the person becomes immunocompromised.
What type of virus is HIV?
HIV is an RNA retrovirus, with HIV-1 being the most common type and HIV-2 mainly found in West Africa.
How is HIV transmitted?
Through:
* Unprotected sexual activity (anal, vaginal, or oral)
* Vertical transmission (from mother to child)
* Blood or mucous membrane exposure to infected fluids
What are some common AIDS-defining illnesses?
Some common illnesses include:
* Kaposi’s sarcoma
* Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP)
* Cytomegalovirus infection
* Candidiasis (oesophageal or bronchial)
* Lymphomas
* Tuberculosis
Why is it important to screen for HIV?
Early diagnosis allows for treatment, improving health outcomes and reducing transmission risk.
What does the fourth-generation HIV test check for?
It detects HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen, with a 45-day window period.
What is the normal CD4 count in a healthy individual?
A normal CD4 count is between 500-1200 cells/mm³. A count under 200 cells/mm³ indicates a higher risk for opportunistic infections.
What is the goal of HIV treatment?
The goal of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is to achieve a normal CD4 count and an undetectable viral load.
What are the main classes of antiretroviral medications?
The main classes are:
* Protease inhibitors (PI)
* Integrase inhibitors (II)
* Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI)
* Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI)
* Entry inhibitors (EI)
What is the usual starting regimen for HIV treatment?
Two NRTIs (e.g., tenofovir + emtricitabine) plus a third agent, such as bictegravir.
What prophylactic treatment is given to HIV-positive patients with a CD4 count under 200/mm³?
Co-trimoxazole is given to prevent Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP).
What vaccination recommendations are there for HIV-positive individuals?
HIV-positive individuals should have vaccinations for:
* Influenza
* Pneumococcal
* HPV
* Hepatitis A and B
Live vaccines, like BCG and typhoid, are avoided.
How can HIV transmission be prevented during birth?
The mode of delivery is determined by the mother’s viral load:
* Under 50 copies/ml: Vaginal delivery
* Over 50 copies/ml: Consider caesarean section
* Over 400 copies/ml: Pre-labour caesarean section recommended
What is the recommended treatment for a baby born to an HIV-positive mother?
Babies may receive zidovudine (for low-risk) or zidovudine, lamivudine, and nevirapine (for high-risk) as post-exposure prophylaxis for 4 weeks.
Can HIV be transmitted through breastfeeding?
Yes, but the risk is lower if the mother’s viral load is undetectable.
What is Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV?
PEP is an emergency treatment to reduce HIV transmission after potential exposure, started within 72 hours.
What is Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)?
PrEP is a preventive treatment for people at high risk of HIV, usually involving emtricitabine/tenofovir.
