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HIV/AIDS diagnosis involves multiple testing methods including antibody/antigen combination tests, followed by confirmatory testing and staging through CD4+ T-cell counts and viral load measurements. Management centers on antiretroviral therapy (ART) to achieve viral suppression, prevent disease progression, and reduce transmission risk. Comprehensive care includes opportunistic infection prophylaxis, regular monitoring, and addressing psychosocial factors.
HIV infects CD4+ T-helper cells, macrophages, and other immune cells through binding to CD4 receptors and co-receptors (CCR5 or CXCR4). Progressive depletion of CD4+ cells leads to immunodeficiency, with AIDS defined as CD4+ count below 200 cells/μL or presence of AIDS-defining opportunistic infections. Without treatment, the virus replicates rapidly, leading to chronic immune activation and eventual immune system collapse.
Early diagnosis through routine screening allows for prompt ART initiation, which prevents progression to AIDS and reduces transmission by achieving undetectable viral loads. Treatment decisions are guided by CD4+ counts, viral load, resistance testing, and patient-specific factors including comorbidities and drug interactions. Regular monitoring ensures treatment efficacy, identifies treatment failure early, and allows for timely prevention and management of opportunistic infections.