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AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)

Introduction:

AIDS is a life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It affects the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 T-cells, making the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. AIDS represents the most advanced stage of HIV infection.


Causes and Transmission:

  • Causative Agent: HIV (Types: HIV-1 and HIV-2).

  • Mode of Transmission:

    1. Sexual contact: Unprotected intercourse with an infected person.

    2. Blood transfusion: Using contaminated blood or blood products.

    3. Sharing needles: Among drug users.

    4. Mother-to-child: During pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

    5. Occupational exposure: Rare, through accidental contact with infected blood.


Stages of HIV Infection:

  1. Acute Infection:

    • Time frame: 2-4 weeks after infection.

    • Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms (fever, rash, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes).

    • High viral load: Highly contagious.

  2. Clinical Latency (Chronic HIV):

    • Time frame: Several years (if untreated).

    • Symptoms: Usually asymptomatic or mild.

    • Virus is active but reproduces slowly.

  3. AIDS:

    • CD4 T-cell count: Below 200 cells/mm³.

    • Symptoms: Severe infections (pneumonia, tuberculosis), cancers (Kaposi's sarcoma).

    • Without treatment, life expectancy is reduced.


Symptoms of AIDS:

  • Severe weight loss (wasting syndrome)

  • Persistent diarrhea

  • Chronic fever

  • Night sweats

  • Recurring infections: Pneumonia, tuberculosis, fungal infections

  • Neurological issues: Memory loss, confusion

  • Skin lesions: Kaposi’s sarcoma


Diagnosis:

  • ELISA Test: Detects HIV antibodies.

  • Western Blot Test: Confirmatory test.

  • PCR Test: Detects viral RNA; useful for early diagnosis.

  • CD4 Count: Measures immune system health.

  • Viral Load Test: Measures the amount of HIV in the blood.


Treatment:

  • Antiretroviral Therapy (ART):

    • Combination of antiretroviral drugs (e.g., AZT, Tenofovir, Efavirenz).

    • Goal: Suppress viral load, restore immune function, and reduce transmission.

    • Lifelong treatment required.


Prevention:

  1. Safe sex practices: Use of condoms.

  2. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): For high-risk individuals.

  3. Avoid sharing needles: Needle exchange programs.

  4. Blood screening: For HIV-free blood transfusion.

  5. Mother-to-child prevention: ART during pregnancy, safe delivery methods.


Global Impact:

  • Epidemiology:

    • 38 million people living with HIV worldwide (as of recent data).

    • Highest prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa.

  • Challenges:

    • Stigma and discrimination.

    • Access to medication in low-income regions.


Conclusion:

AIDS is a severe and life-threatening condition resulting from HIV infection. While there is no cure, early detection and antiretroviral therapy can significantly improve the quality of life and reduce transmission. Prevention through education, safe practices, and screening remains essential in controlling the global impact of this disease

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