For the second time in history, a person has been successfully treated for HIV-1.

Background on HIV

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that damages the immune system by destroying important cells called CD4+ T cells.

If left untreated, HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is a collection of symptoms and illnesses caused by severe damage to the immune system.

HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.

The most common modes of transmission are through unprotected sexual intercourse with a person living with HIV, sharing needles or syringes with someone who has HIV, and mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

The First Successful HIV Treatment

The first-ever person cured of HIV was Timothy Brown, formerly known as the “Berlin Patient.” In 2007, Brown was living with HIV and leukemia.

He received a stem cell transplant from a donor who had a rare genetic mutation that makes them resistant to HIV. Brown’s immune cells were replaced with the donor’s, effectively curing him of HIV.

Related Article Another patient diagnosed with AIDS

The Second Successful HIV Treatment

Now, a second person has been treated for HIV. The patient, who has not been identified, was diagnosed with HIV in 2012 and received combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) medications.

However, the patient developed Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer, and underwent chemotherapy. After the chemotherapy, the patient received a bone marrow transplant from a donor who had the CCR5 gene mutation, which is resistant to HIV. The patient stopped taking ART drugs and has remained in remission since September 2017.

What is a CCR5 Gene Mutation?

The CCR5 gene mutation occurs in less than 1% of people in certain populations. The mutation affects the surface receptors of the immune system’s T cells and makes it more difficult for the HIV virus to enter and infect those cells.

More Research Needed

While the second successful HIV treatment is certainly exciting news, it is important to note that this is still a very rare occurrence. There is still much research to be done in the realm of HIV cure and treatment.

It is also important to remember that there are many people living with HIV who do not have access to life-saving medications or treatments. Ending the HIV epidemic will require a multi-faceted approach that includes prevention, testing, treatment, and access to care for all.

Conclusion

The second successful HIV treatment is a milestone in HIV research but it is only a small step towards ending the epidemic.

Much more research is needed and efforts must be made to ensure that all people living with HIV have access to life-saving medications and treatments.