Answer:
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are related but distinct conditions. HIV is a virus that attacks and weakens the immune system, specifically the CD4 T-cells, which are important in fighting off infections. AIDS is a condition that occurs when the immune system is severely damaged by HIV, leading to a variety of opportunistic infections and cancers that can be life-threatening.
HIV can be diagnosed through several tests, including:
Antibody screening tests: These tests detect the presence of antibodies produced by the body in response to HIV infection. These tests may be done using blood, saliva, or urine samples.
Viral load tests: These tests measure the amount of HIV RNA in the blood. This test is used to monitor the progression of HIV and to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
CD4 T-cell count: This test measures the number of CD4 T-cells in the blood. A low CD4 count indicates that the immune system is weakened, which is a sign that HIV has progressed to AIDS.
Patients with AIDS are at increased risk for a variety of opportunistic infections, including:
Pneumocystis pneumonia: This is a fungal infection that can cause severe respiratory symptoms and is a common cause of death in patients with AIDS.
Tuberculosis: This bacterial infection can affect the lungs and other organs and is more common in patients with HIV.
Candidiasis: This is a fungal infection that can affect the mouth, throat, and genital area.
Kaposi's sarcoma: This is a type of cancer that can affect the skin and other organs and is associated with infection by the human herpesvirus 8.
Toxoplasmosis: This is a parasitic infection that can cause neurological symptoms and is more common in patients with HIV.
Overall, HIV and AIDS are related conditions that can have serious health consequences. Early diagnosis and treatment with antiretroviral therapy can help slow the progression of HIV and reduce the risk of developing AIDS and opportunistic infections.
Step-by-step explanation: