HIV/AIDS I. Definition: HIV refers to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus which causes AIDS. It is a retrovirus.

It belongs to lentivirus, which is sometimes called slow virus. The time between infection and appearance of symptoms tends to be much longer, allowing more opportunities for these microorganisms to be transmitted to other hosts. The period between infection and appearance of AIDS can take from 7 to 12 years. AIDS means Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. It is acquired, which means it is neither hereditary nor inborn. It involves an immune deficiency. When a persons immune deficiency breaks down, he or she becomes susceptible to many other infections which eventually lead to death. The development of antibodies which are detectable may be from 1 to 3 months. HIV infection has an incubation period of less than 1year and up to 15years (PHN Book) from the period of detection of the infection to the diagnosis of AIDS. Causative Organism: The causative organism is Retrovirus which is a member of lentivirus. Mode of Transmission: The major route of transmission to an adolescent is sexual transmission which means that genital secretions and other bodily fluids and blood are involved. In infants, they usually acquire the infection from their HIV(+) mothers. French kissing brings low risk of HIV transmission. Clinical Manifestations: A. Window Phase Initial infection Lasts for 4 weeks to 6 months Not revealed by laboratory tests. (Lab Tests should be repeated every 6mos.) B. Acute Primary Infection Short, symptomatic period Flu-like symptoms Ideal time to undergo ELISA C. Asymptomatic HIV Infection With antibodies against HIV but not protective Lasts for 1-20 years depending upon various factors D. ARC (AIDS Related Complex) A group of symptoms indicating the disease is likely to progress to AIDS Fever of unknown origin Night sweats

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 Chronic intermittent diarrhea Lymphadenopathy 10% of body weight loss E. AIDS Manifestation of severe immunosuppression CD4 count: <200/dL Presence of a variety of illnesses at one time: Oral Candidiasis Cytomegalovirus PCP TB Kaposis Sarcoma Herpes simplex Pseudomonas infection V. Pathophysiology: When HIV infection takes place, anti-HIV antibodies (AB) are produced but they do not appear immediately. This, according to Tan (1999) is the window effect. In some cases, AB to HIV becomes detectable in 4-6weeks after infection. When HIV is already in circulation, it invades several cells like the lymphocytes, macrophages, Langerhan cells, and neurons within the CNS. HIV attacks the immune system and attaches to a CHON molecule called CD4 which is found on the surface of the T4 cells. Once the virus enters the T4 cells, it inserts its genetic materials into the nucleus and then takes over the cell which eventually dies after having been used to replicate HIV. The virus mutates rapidly making it more difficult for the body to recognize it. It then progresses through several clinical stages and finally ending in the diagnosis of AIDS. VI. Management: Diagnostic Tests: ELISA presumptive test Western Blot confirmatory Treatment: Treatment of opportunistic infection. Nutritional rehabilitation. AZT (Zidovudine) retards the replication of the retrovirus. PK 1614 mutagen Prevention: Abstinence

Be faithful Condom Sterile needles, syringes, and instruments used. Proper screening of blood donors. Rigid exam of blood and other products. Avoid oral and anal contact. Do not swallow semen. Avoid promiscuous sexual contact. Avoid sharing toothbrushes. Use disposable gloves when in contact with patient with non-intact skin. Health education.

---CIAP/SSCR BSN13 =)

San Sebastian College - Recoletos de Cavite, Inc. College of Nursing

Communicable Diseases: HIV/AIDS

Submitted by: Caezar Ian A. Potente

Submitted to: Mrs. Lericka D. Mangahis