HIV infection Health Article

Definition

HIV infection is a disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The condition gradually destroys the immune system, which makes it harder for the body to fight off infections.

This article provides a general overview. For more detailed information, see:

• AIDS
• Acute HIV infection
• Asymptomatic HIV infection
• Early symptomatic HIV infection

Alternative Names

Human immunodeficiency virus infection

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be spread by the following:

• Contaminated blood transfusions and blood product
• Intimate sexual contac
• The use of contaminated needles and syringes

The virus may also spread from the mother to her baby, either at birth or through breastfeeding.

People who become infected with HIV may have no symptoms for up to 10 years, but they can still pass the infection to others. After being exposed to the virus, it usually takes about 3 months for blood test results to change from HIV negative to HIV positive.

HIV has spread throughout the US. Higher concentrations of the disease are found in inner cities.

Symptoms

HIV can cause any symptoms of illness, since infections can occur throughout the body. Some ymptoms related to HIV infection include:

• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Frequent vaginal yeast infections
• Headache
• Mouth sores, including candidal infection
• Muscular stiffness or aching
• Rash of various types, including seborrheic dermatitis
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph glands

Note: At the time of diagnosis with HIV infection, many people may not have experienced any symptoms.

Signs and tests

The HIV ELISA/Western blot test detects antibodies to the HIV virus. Having these antibodies means you are infected with HIV. If the test is negative (no antibodies found) and you have risk factors for HIV infection, you should be retested in 3 months.

If the HIV ELISA/Western blot test is positive, other blood tests can be done to determine how much HIV is in your bloodstream. White blood cell differential may also show abnormalities.

A lower-than-normal CD4 cell count may be a sign that the virus is suppressing your immune system.