Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Question 1

What sexually transmitted infectious disease should be at the back of your mind when a patient has a sore throat and a mononucleosis-like syndrome?

Answer 1

HIV

initial seroconversion may present as a mononucleosis-like syndrome (e.g., fever, malaise, pharyngitis, rash, lymphadenopathy).

Question 2

How is HIV diagnosed?

Answer 2

ELISA
If positive confirm with Western Blot
Can use rapid antibody test
Positive must be confirmed with ELISA and Western Blot.

Question 3

How long after exposure does the HIV test become positive?

Answer 3

It takes 6 -12 weeks for antibodies to form. At 6 months 95% have antibodies.
If negative initial test for risky behavior, repeat in 6 months.

Question 4

Are control tests needed when a purified protein derivative (PPD) tuberculosis test is performed for HIV-positive patients?

Answer 4

No

Most authorities no longer recommend control testing (also known as anergy) testing when a PPD test is performed for HIV-positive patients.

Question 5

What sexually transmitted disease should be at the back of your mind when a patient has a sore throat and a mononucleosis-like disease?

Answer 5

HIV infection

may initially present like mononucleosis with fever, malaise, pharyngitis, rash and lymphadenopathy.

Question 6

How is HIV diagnosed?

Answer 6

ELISA
confirmation with western blot
Rapid test available but sensitivity and specificity varies with prevalence and if + require confirmation with ELISA and western blot.

Question 7

How long after exposure does the HIV test become positive?

Answer 7

6-12 weeks for the majority of patients.
by 6 months in 95%.
if initial test due to risky behavior negative retest in 6mo.

Question 8

Are control test needed when a PPD Tbtest is performed for HIV+ pt?

Answer 8

anergy testing no longer generally recommended