Condition

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV is a virus that progressively attacks the immune system and, untreated, leads to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Immune System

Justin Cooke, BHSc Clinical Herbalist · March 19, 2018 5 Herbs // 2 Differentials

Overview

Aetiology

HIV is characterized by 2 forms; HIV-1 and HIV-2. Both eventually lead to the development of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Infection begins with a brief bout of flu-like symptoms, followed by between 3 and 20 years of latency before returning as symptomatic HIV.

HIV works by attacking cells with CD4+ markers on their surface (especially T4 lymphocytes). This hides the virus from detection, and hijacks the T cells to produce more viruses.

Due to a loss of CD4+ cells, other opportunistic infections have a better chance of taking hold in the system.

AIDS is diagnosed once CD4+ count drops below 200 copies/mm3.

Disease drivers include:

Lifestyle factors (unprotected sex, IV drug use)
Blood transfusions
Gender (females more susceptible)
Exposure in utero

HIV-1

HIV-1 is considered more virulent and more infective. It is the cause of most HIV infections around the globe.

HIV-2

HIV-2 is less infective, and is mainly confined to West Africa.

Presentation

Symptoms

Early infection may cause a flu-like illness with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and rash, followed by a long asymptomatic period. As immune function declines, symptoms include persistent fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, chronic diarrhea, and recurrent infections. Advanced disease (AIDS) is marked by opportunistic infections and malignancies.