Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), weakening the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.

If left untreated, HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a stage characterized by severe immune system damage and the occurrence of opportunistic infections. Understanding the journey from HIV infection to AIDS is crucial for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this life-threatening condition.

HIV Transmission

HIV is primarily transmitted through certain body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common modes of transmission include:.

Unprotected sexual intercourse with an HIV-infected person
Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
Transmission from an HIV-positive mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
Less commonly, through occupational exposure to HIV-infected blood (for healthcare workers) or blood transfusions (before the implementation of stringent screening measures)

HIV Infection and Progression

Upon entering the body, HIV targets and infects CD4 cells, which are vital for coordinating the immune response. The virus attaches to the CD4 cell surface, fusing with it and releasing its genetic material into the cell.

The virus then uses the cell’s machinery to replicate itself, eventually leading to the destruction of the CD4 cell.

During the initial phase of HIV infection, individuals may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat. However, many people remain asymptomatic or experience mild symptoms, which often go unnoticed.

HIV Detection and Diagnosis

HIV infection can be diagnosed through various tests, including:.

HIV antibody test: Detects the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to HIV infection
HIV antigen/antibody test: Simultaneously detects both HIV antigens and antibodies, allowing for earlier detection of the virus
Viral load test: Measures the amount of HIV genetic material (RNA) in the blood, indicating the level of virus activity

Early detection of HIV is crucial, as it enables timely intervention to prevent disease progression and transmission to others.

HIV Treatment: Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for HIV infection and is highly effective in suppressing the virus, reducing the viral load to undetectable levels, and allowing the immune system to recover.

ART involves the use of a combination of antiretroviral drugs from different classes, such as:.

Reverse transcriptase inhibitors: Prevent the virus from copying its genetic material
Protease inhibitors: Interfere with the production of mature viral particles
Integrase inhibitors: Block the integration of HIV genetic material into the host cell’s DNA
Fusion inhibitors: Prevent the virus from entering the CD4 cells
CCR5 antagonists: Block a co-receptor on the CD4 cell surface, preventing HIV from entering the cell

ART has revolutionized HIV treatment, providing people living with HIV the opportunity to lead longer, healthier lives. Adherence to ART is crucial to maintain viral suppression and prevent the development of drug resistance.

Progression to AIDS

If left untreated or inadequately managed, HIV infection progressively weakens the immune system, resulting in the development of AIDS. The diagnostic criteria for AIDS include:.

CD4 count below 200 cells/mm³
The presence of specific opportunistic infections or cancers

Opportunistic infections are caused by pathogens that typically do not cause illness in individuals with a healthy immune system but can take advantage of the compromised immune response in people with AIDS.

These infections may include tuberculosis, pneumonia, candidiasis, and certain types of cancers like Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Preventing HIV Transmission and Progression

Prevention is paramount in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Some essential preventive measures include:.

Practicing safe sex by consistently using condoms and getting tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections
Avoiding sharing drug paraphernalia and opting for sterile needles and syringes
Preventing mother-to-child transmission through antiretroviral medications during pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding
Ensuring healthcare workers follow strict infection control protocols to reduce the risk of occupational exposure
Undertaking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at high risk of HIV infection

By implementing comprehensive prevention strategies and ensuring early detection and access to treatment, the global community continues to strive towards curbing the spread of HIV and improving the quality of life for those living with the virus.