Final answer:
HIV progresses to AIDS when a patient's helper T cells drop below 200 cells per microliter, or when an opportunistic infection develops. Testing positive for HIV or a CD4 T-cell count below 900 does not constitute an AIDS diagnosis. Proper treatment and monitoring of CD4 T-cell levels are crucial for managing HIV and preventing AIDS.
Step-by-step explanation:
HIV becomes identified as AIDS when either of two conditions is met. First, when a patient’s helper T cells drop below 200 cells per microliter of blood, indicating a severely compromised immune system. Second, when the patient develops an opportunistic infection, which are illnesses that usually affect those with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV that has progressed to AIDS. These conditions reflect the final and most severe stage of HIV infection, where the body's immune defenses have been significantly weakened.It's important to note that simply testing positive for the HIV virus does not mean a person has AIDS. Furthermore, the count of helper T cells falling below 900 cells per cubic mL does not qualify for an AIDS diagnosis. It is the drop to 200 or fewer CD4 T-cells or the onset of opportunistic infections that triggers the diagnosis. Patients with AIDS can also exhibit symptoms like weight loss, fever, and rare cancers such as Kaposi's sarcoma.Continuous monitoring of CD4 T-cell counts using flow cytometry is essential to manage HIV infection and prevent the progression to AIDS. While there is no cure for HIV and AIDS, medication can help control the progression if administered properly.