HIV Study Guide: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

This comprehensive HIV study guide is an essential resource for healthcare professionals, medical students, and anyone interested in learning about Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), its management, and treatment strategies. The guide covers the basics of HIV, from its transmission and pathophysiology to diagnostic approaches and the latest in antiretroviral therapy (ART).
 
Key Features:
What is HIV? Understand how HIV targets CD4+ T cells and the pathophysiological process that leads to AIDS if left untreated. Learn about transmission routes, including blood, sexual contact, and vertical transmission.
Signs and Symptoms: Detailed explanation of the stages of HIV infection, including acute HIV infection (seroconversion illness), clinical latency, and the symptoms associated with each stage.
 
Viral Load & CD4 Count: Learn how viral load and CD4 counts are used to assess HIV progression, monitor treatment efficacy, and guide clinical decisions.
Diagnosis of HIV: Understand the diagnostic process, including 4th generation HIV tests, viral load testing, and the role of CD4 count in managing HIV.
ART (Antiretroviral Therapy): Explore first-line ART regimens for treatment-naïve patients, including the use of NRTIs, NNRTIs, and integrase inhibitors. Learn about the importance of early initiation and adherence to ART for viral suppression and health improvement.
Prevention with PrEP & PEP: Gain insight into Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), key preventive treatments to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV.
Challenges in HIV Treatment: Understand the challenges of polypharmacy, comorbidities, drug-drug interactions, and managing patients with late-stage HIV or those with resistance mutations.
 
Long-Term Side Effects & Monitoring: Learn about the long-term side effects of ART, such as renal toxicity and metabolic changes, and the importance of regular monitoring for renal, liver, and cardiovascular health.
 
Whether you’re preparing for exams, working in clinical practice, or looking to expand your knowledge on HIV management, this guide provides a detailed, clear, and structured approach to understanding the complexities of HIV and its treatment.