Asymptomatic HIV infection
Alternative names:
HIV infection - asymptomatic
Definition:
A chronic viral infection
with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) that gradually destroys
the immune system.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Asymptomatic HIV infection is characterized by a period
of varying length in which there is slow deterioration of
the immune system. There is a decline in the CD4 counts, an
index of immune function. This period of time may last for
10 years or longer before symptoms appear. See HIV
infection for a description of the symptoms that can occur.
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 persons infected
with HIV will inevitably progress to AIDS,
but time has shown that the vast majority do.
Risk factors for HIV infection are sexual contact with a person
infected with HIV, intravenous
drug use, receipt of blood transfusion or blood components,
and being born to an HIV positive mother.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
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