Overview

• Retrovirus that infects and replicates in human lymphocytes and macrophages, resulting in immunodeficiency
• Replicates primarily in human CD4+ T cells and macrophages
• Transmitted Via → sexual fluids (majority of cases), blood (IV drug users sharing contaminated needles or blood transfusions), breast milk
• Risk Factors → HIV-infected blood transfusion, IV drug use, unprotected sexual intercourse, percutaneous needle prick injury
• Increasing incidence in Africa and Asia

Making Diagnosis

Clinical Features:

HIV seroconversion is symptomatic in 60-80% of patients and typically presents as a glandular fever type illness. Typically occurs 3-12 weeks after infection.

• Fevers, Night Sweats, Weight Loss
• Skin Rashes → maculopapular rash
• Lymphadenopathy
• Sore Throat
• Oral Ulcers
• Diarrhoea
• TB
• Genital STIs