HIV infection
Alternative names:
human immunodeficiency virus infection
Definition:
A viral infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) that gradually destroys the immune system.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Primary or acute HIV infection
may be associated with symptoms resembling mononucleosis
or the flu within 2 to
4 weeks of exposure. HIV seroconversion (converting from HIV
negative to HIV positive) occurs within 3 months of exposure.
Acute HIV infection can, but does not always, progress to
symptomatic HIV infection
and advanced HIV diseases or AIDS.
In a study of people infected with the virus from 1977 through
1980, some have no signs or symptoms of HIV infection, and
some have only generalized lymphadenopathy
(enlarged nodes). It cannot be assumed that all people infected
with HIV will inevitably progress to AIDS, but time has shown
that the vast majority do.
It is estimated that 1 out of every 250 people in the United
States carries the HIV virus, but not all exhibit symptoms.
HIV has spread throughout the United States. Higher concentrations
of the disease are found in inner city areas.
Related topics:
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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