Answer to Question #254655 in Microbiology for Joe

Question

Write a note on AIDS. answer in detail. 10 marks

Answer 1

AIDS stands for "acquired immunodeficiency syndrome."

AIDS is an advanced stage of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV usually spreads from person to person through contact with infected sexual secretions or blood.

People with AIDS have weakened immune systems that make them vulnerable to medical conditions and infections.

In people with AIDS, HIV itself may cause symptoms. Some people experience relentless fatigue and weight loss, known as "wasting syndrome." Others may develop confusion or sleepiness due to infection of the brain with HIV, known as HIV encephalopathy. Both wasting syndrome and HIV encephalopathy are AIDS-defining illnesses.

The likelihood of HIV infection progressing to AIDS increases with the number of years a person has been infected. Using highly effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens reduces the chance of developing AIDS.

ART enhances the immune system and extends life expectancy in persons living with AIDS. Many people who receive ART have life expectancies that are close to normal. ART is a treatment that patients must continue for life. It is not a cure.

Some antiretroviral medicines have the potential to become HIV resistant. The greatest method to avoid resistance is for the patient to always take their ART as prescribed. If a patient wants to stop taking a medication due to adverse effects, he or she should contact their doctor right away.

Research is under way to find a vaccine and cure for HIV.