home Calculators HIV infection. Symptoms, methods of infection, diagnosis and treatment. HIV is the “plague” of our time: can it be treated or not?

HIV infection. Symptoms, methods of infection, diagnosis and treatment. HIV is the “plague” of our time: can it be treated or not?

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a serious disease that develops against the background of HIV infection and, in fact, is its terminal stage. People infected with HIV die not from the pathological effects of the immunodeficiency virus on the body, but from the consequences of AIDS - opportunistic infections and cancer.

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Who is diagnosed with AIDS?

The transition of HIV infection to AIDS is determined if the patient has a number of criteria:

AIDS-defining diseases include:

Bacterial infections(, severe recurrent, diseases caused by atypical mycobacteria, common).
Fungal infections (severe candidiasis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, Pneumocystis pneumonia).
Viral infections(chronic damage to the skin, mucous membranes, bronchi, lungs, esophagus, caused by the simplex virus, and specific damage to the central nervous system by polyomavirus - multifocal leukoencephalopathy).
Protozoal infections(, cryptosporidosis, microsporidosis).
Other diseases(Kaposi's sarcoma, invasive, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, HIV encephalopathy, wasting syndrome, etc.).

Infectious diseases that affect people with AIDS are called opportunistic diseases. Their peculiarity is that the causative agents of these infections often live in the human body, but the immune system does not give them the opportunity to become active. Activation indicates a serious immunodeficiency. Therefore, the occurrence of opportunistic infections is always a direct indication to be tested for HIV.

The manifestations of AIDS are very diverse. Their character largely depends on age, conditions and lifestyle, the quality of medical care provided and even geographical location sick. For example, in developing countries With the high incidence of tuberculosis, this infection is the most dangerous for AIDS patients, while in Europe viral and fungal infections come to the fore.

Dermatological signs of AIDS:

, which manifests itself as a rash, greasy scales on the skin of the face, head, chest, back, severe itching, and dandruff.
Kaposi's sarcoma is a malignant disease in which reddish-brown or bluish spots and nodules appear on the body (usually on the legs). In addition, swelling of the limb and ulcers appear at the site of the rash. Similar manifestations can occur in the oral mucosa, gastrointestinal tract and lungs. Scientists associate the development of Kaposi's sarcoma in AIDS with the activation of a special herpes virus.
Herpes simplex and herpes zoster, prone to severe and protracted course with extensive damage to the skin and visible mucous membranes.
Multiple warts, molluscum contagiosum, genital warts in the genital area, on the face, in the mouth.
“Hairy” oral leukoplakia – white lines and spots on the tongue that are viral in nature.
Persistent candidiasis of the oral cavity and perianal area.
Fungal infection of the skin and nails.

Gastrointestinal manifestations:

which lasts more than a month and leads to malabsorption nutrients in the intestines, so patients become very weak.
Inflammation of the esophagus, which is characterized by heartburn, difficulty and painful swallowing of food, nausea, and a feeling of something stuck in the throat. The occurrence of such inflammation may be associated with the activation of candida fungi or a herpetic infection.
Gastrointestinal bleeding.
Inflammation of the rectum (proctitis), which is accompanied by itching, burning, and a feeling of heaviness in the anus. Homosexuals most often develop herpetic proctitis.

Respiratory manifestations:

Frequent and severe pneumonia that are difficult to treat. The most characteristic of AIDS is pneumonia caused by pneumocystis.
Pulmonary tuberculosis.

Neurological manifestations(may be the result of damage to the nervous structures by the immunodeficiency virus or a consequence of opportunistic infections):

Pathological conditions in which the myelin sheath of nerve fibers in the brain or spinal cord, which entails disruption of the conduction of nerve impulses and the appearance of various neurological symptoms (paresis, speech and vision disorders), as well as mental problems.
Encephalopathy with the development of dementia.

Manifestations from the organ of vision:

Retinitis (inflammation of the retina) caused by activation of cytomegaloviruses and herpesviruses. Accompanied by persistent decreased vision.
Choroiditis (inflammation choroid eyes), characteristic of Pneumocystis infection.
Kaposi's sarcoma, localized on the eyelids and conjunctiva.

Tuberculosis and AIDS

Many people become infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis in childhood, but the development infectious process they are blocked by the immune system. Therefore, it is quite natural that activation of tuberculosis in HIV-positive individuals occurs very often. Moreover, with the transition of HIV infection to the AIDS stage, the tuberculosis process spreads throughout the body. Not only the lungs are affected, but also Bone marrow, genitourinary system, bones, digestive tract, liver, lymph nodes, central nervous system and other organs. In addition, patients experience severe intoxication and exhaustion. People simply “burn out” if they don’t get help on time health care. In developing countries, tuberculosis is the leading cause of death in AIDS.

AIDS treatment

Treatment of AIDS patients includes several areas:

Mandatory hospitalization of patients in specialized departments of clinics dealing with the problems of HIV-infected people.
Skilled nursing.
Complete nutrition.
Active antiretroviral therapy, which even at the AIDS stage makes it possible to increase the number of CD4+ lymphocytes so that the patient’s body at least somehow begins to resist infections.
Specific treatment aimed at combating developed secondary diseases.
Chemoprophylaxis of opportunistic infections

The life expectancy of patients after an AIDS diagnosis without proper treatment is only one to two years. Qualified medical care can extend this period.

In addition, the following has a great influence on the survival of patients with AIDS:

Tolerance to medications (many patients experience serious side effects during treatment with antiretroviral drugs).
The patient's attitude towards doctors' prescriptions.
Living conditions.
Availability concomitant diseases(for example, viral hepatitis).
Taking drugs.

That is, we can conclude that the life prognosis for AIDS patients is very disappointing. Therefore, you should not be afraid of HIV testing, especially if there are any risk factors. This terrible infection must be identified and treated in a timely manner, and not wait for the development of AIDS!

Zubkova Olga Sergeevna, medical observer, epidemiologist

HIV is an acronym that stands for human immunodeficiency virus, which infects immune system humans, causing HIV infection.

The last stage of HIV infection is AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

HIV infection and AIDS: what is the fundamental difference between these two conditions?

HIV infection
Incurable infectious disease. It belongs to the group of slow viral infections with a long-term course that affects the immune system.

That is, the virus, having entered the body of a healthy person from a sick person, may not manifest itself in any way for many years.

However, HIV gradually destroys the cells of the immune system, which is designed to protect the human body from all kinds of infections and negative impacts.
Therefore, over time, the immune system “loses its ground.”

AIDS
A condition in which the human immune system is practically unable to fight infections or resist the development of cancer cells and various harmful factors environment. At this stage, any infection, even the most harmless one, can lead to the development serious illness, and subsequently the death of the patient from complications, encephalitis or tumor.

Facts about the disease

Perhaps now there is not a single adult who has never heard of HIV infection. It’s not for nothing that it’s called the “plague of the 20th century.” And even in the 11th century, it moves forward by leaps and bounds, claiming about 5,000 human lives all over the world every day. Although, As a disease, HIV has a not so long history.

It is believed that HIV infection began its “triumphant march” across the planet back in the 70s of the last century, when the first mass cases of infection with symptoms similar to AIDS were described.

However, they started talking about HIV infection officially only in the early 80s of the last century:

In 1981, two articles were published that described the development of an unusual pneumocystis pneumonia (caused by a yeast-like fungus) and Kaposi's sarcoma (a malignant skin tumor) in homosexual men.
In July 1982, the term “AIDS” was coined to describe the new disease.
The human immunodeficiency virus was discovered in 1983 simultaneously in two independent laboratories:
- In France at the Institute. Louis Pasteur under the direction of Luc Montagnier
- In the USA at the National Cancer Institute under the leadership of Gallo Robert
In 1985, a technique was developed that determined the presence of antibodies to HIV in the blood of patients - an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
In 1987, the first case of HIV infection in the USSR was diagnosed. The patient is a homosexual man who worked as a translator in African countries.
In 1988, the World Health Organization declared International AIDS Day on December 1st.

A little history

Where did HIV come from? There is no clear answer to this question. However, there are several hypotheses.

The most common theory is that man became infected from a monkey. It is based on the fact that in apes (chimpanzees) living in Central Africa (Congo), a virus was isolated from the blood that can cause the development of AIDS in humans. It is likely that human infection occurred through accidental injury during butchering of a monkey carcass or a human being bitten by a monkey.

However, monkey HIV is a weak virus and the human body copes with it within one week. But for the virus to harm the immune system, it must be transmitted from one person to another within a short time. Then the virus mutates (changes), acquiring properties characteristic of human HIV.

There is also an assumption that HIV existed for a long time among the tribes of Central Africa. However, it was only with the onset of increased migration in the 20th century that the virus spread throughout the world.

Statistics

Every year, a huge number of people around the world become infected with HIV.

Number of HIV-infected people

Worldwide as of 01/01/2013 amounted to 35.3 million people
In Russia at the end of 2013 - about 780,000 people, with 51,190 thousand identified between 01/01/13 and 08/31/13
By CIS countries(data as of the end of 2013):
- Ukraine - about 350,000
- Kazakhstan - about 16,000
- Belarus - 15,711
- Moldova - 7,800
- Georgia - 4,094
- Armenia - 3,500
- Tajikistan - 4,700
- Azerbaijan - 4,171
- Kyrgyzstan - about 5,000
- Turkmenistan - officials say HIV infection does not exist in the country
- Uzbekistan - about 7,800

The given data does not fully characterize the actual statistics, since not everyone is tested for HIV. In fact, the numbers are much higher, which should undoubtedly alert governments of all countries and the WHO.

Mortality

Since the beginning of the epidemic, about 36 million people have died from AIDS. Moreover, the mortality rate of patients is decreasing year by year - thanks to successful highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART or ART).

Celebrities who died from AIDS

Gia Carangi- American supermodel. She died in 1986. She suffered from a severe form of drug addiction.
Freddie Mercury- lead singer of the legendary rock band Queen. Died in 1991.
Michael Wastphal- famous tennis player. He died at the age of 26.
Rudolf Nureyev- a legend of world ballet. Died in 1993.
Ryan White- the first and most famous child with HIV infection. He suffered from hemophilia and contracted HIV through a blood transfusion at age 13. The boy, together with his mother, fought for the rights of HIV-infected people all his life. Ryan White died of AIDS in 1990 at the age of 18, but did not lose: he proved to the whole world that HIV-infected people do not pose a threat if basic precautions are taken, and have the right to an ordinary life.

The list is far from complete. The story continues...

AIDS virus

There is probably no other virus that is studied so thoroughly and at the same time remains a big mystery for scientists, claiming thousands of lives every year, including children. This is due to the fact that the human immunodeficiency virus changes very quickly: 1000 mutations per gene. Therefore, an effective drug against it has not yet been found and no vaccine has been developed. Whereas, for example, the influenza virus mutates 30 (!) less often.

In addition, there are several varieties of the virus itself.

HIV: structure

There are two main types of HIV:

HIV-1or HIV-1(discovered in 1983) is the main causative agent of infection. It is very aggressive, causing typical manifestations of the disease. Most often found in Western Europe and Asia, South and North America, Central Africa.

HIV-2 or HIV-2(discovered in 1986) is a less aggressive analogue of HIV-1, so the disease is milder. Not so widespread: found in western Africa, Germany, France, Portugal.

There is HIV-3 and HIV-4, but they are rare.

Structure

HIV- a spherical (spherical) particle having a size from 100 to 120 nanometers. The virus shell is dense, formed by a double lipid (fat-like substance) layer with “spikes”, and under it is a protein layer (p-24 capsid).

Under the capsule are:

two strands of viral RNA (ribonucleic acid) - a carrier of genetic information
viral enzymes: protease, intergrase and transcriptase
p7 protein

HIV belongs to the family of slow (lentiviruses) retroviruses. It does not have a cellular structure, does not synthesize proteins on its own, and reproduces only in cells human body.

The most important feature of retroviruses is the presence of a special enzyme: reverse transcriptase. Thanks to this enzyme, the virus converts its RNA into DNA (a molecule that ensures the storage and transmission of genetic information to subsequent generations), which it then introduces into the host cells.

HIV: properties

HIV is not stable in the external environment:

quickly dies under the influence of a 5% solution of hydrogen peroxide, ether, chloramine solution, 70 0 C alcohol, acetone
outside the body in the open air dies within a few minutes
at +56 0 C - 30 minutes
when boiling - instantly

However, the virus remains viable for 4-6 days in a dried state at a temperature of + 22 0 C, in a heroin solution for up to 21 days, in a needle cavity for several days. HIV is resistant to freezing and is not affected by ionizing or ultraviolet radiation.

HIV: features of the life cycle

HIV has a special tropism (prefers) for certain cells of the immune system - T-helper lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and cells nervous system, in the shell of which there are special receptors - CD4 cells. However, there is an assumption that HIV also infects other cells.

What are the cells of the immune system responsible for?

T lymphocytes-helpers activate the work of almost all cells of the immune system, and also produce special substances that fight foreign agents: viruses, microbes, fungi, allergens. That is, in fact, they control the functioning of almost the entire immune system.

Monocytes and macrophages - cells that absorb foreign particles, viruses and microbes, digesting them.

The HIV life cycle includes several phases

Let's look at them using the example of a helper T lymphocyte:

Once in the body, the virus binds to special receptors on the surface of the T-lymphocyte - CD4 cells. Next, it penetrates the host cell and sheds the outer membrane.

Using reverse transcriptase a DNA copy (one chain) is synthesized on the viral RNA (template). The copy is then completed into double-stranded DNA.
Double-stranded DNA moves into the T-lymphocyte nucleus, where it is integrated into the DNA of the host cell. At this stage, the active enzyme is integrase.
The DNA copy remains in the host cell from several months to several years, “sleeping,” so to speak. At this stage, the presence of the virus in the human body can be detected using tests with specific antibodies.
Any secondary infection provokes the transfer of information from the DNA copy to the template (viral) RNA, which leads to further replication of the virus.
Next, the host cell's ribosomes (protein-producing particles) synthesize viral proteins on the viral RNA.
Then from viral RNA and newly synthesized viral proteins assembly of new parts of viruses occurs, which leave the cell, destroying it.
New viruses attach to receptors on the surface of other T lymphocytes - and the cycle begins again.

Thus, if no treatment is given, HIV reproduces itself quite quickly: from 10 to 100 billion new viruses per day.

General diagram of the division of HIV along with a photograph taken under electron microscope.

HIV infection

Gone are the days when it was believed that HIV infection was a disease that only affected drug addicts, sex workers and homosexuals.

Anyone can become infected, regardless of social status, financial wealth, gender, age and sexual orientation. The source of infection is an HIV-infected person at any stage of the infectious process.

HIV doesn't just fly through the air. It is found in biological fluids of the body: blood, semen, vaginal secretions, breast milk, cerebrospinal fluid. For infection, an infectious dose of about 10,000 viral particles must enter the bloodstream.

Routes of transmission of HIV infection

Heterosexual contacts- unprotected vaginal sex.

The most common route of HIV transmission in the world is about 70-80% of infections, in Russia - 40.3%.

The risk of infection after one sexual contact with ejaculation ranges from 0.1 to 0.32% for the passive partner (the “receiving” side), and 0.01-0.1% for the active partner (the “introducing” side).

However, infection can occur after one sexual contact if there is any other sexually transmitted disease (STD): syphilis, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis and others. Since the number of T-helper lymphocytes and other cells of the immune system increases in the inflammatory focus. And then HIV “enters the human body on a white horse.”

In addition, with all STDs, the mucous membrane is prone to injury, so its integrity is often compromised: cracks, ulcers, and erosions appear. As a result, infection occurs much faster.

The likelihood of infection increases with prolonged sexual intercourse: if the husband is sick, then within three years in 45-50% of cases the wife becomes infected, if the wife is sick - in 35-45% of the cases the husband becomes infected. A woman’s risk of infection is higher because a large amount of infected sperm enters the vagina, it stays in contact with the mucous membrane for longer, and the contact area is larger.

Intravenous drug use

In the world, 5-10% of patients are infected this way, in Russia - 57.9%.

Since drug addicts often use shared non-sterile medical syringes or shared containers for preparing the solution when administering drugs intravenously. The probability of infection is 30-35%.

In addition, drug addicts often engage in promiscuous sex, which several times increases the likelihood of infection for both themselves and others.

Unprotected anal sex regardless of sexual orientation

The probability of infecting a passive partner after one sexual contact with fellation ranges from 0.8 to 3.2%, and an active partner - 0.06%. The risk of infection is higher since the rectal mucosa is vulnerable and well supplied with blood.

Unprotected oral sex

The probability of infection is lower: for a passive partner after one contact with ejaculation no more than 0.03-0.04%, for an active partner - almost zero.

However, the risk of infection increases if there are jams in the corners of the mouth, and wounds and ulcers in the cavity.

Children born from HIV-infected mothers

They become infected in 25-35% of cases through a defective placenta, at the time of birth, or during breastfeeding.

It is possible for a healthy mother to become infected when breastfeeding a sick child, if the woman has cracked nipples and the baby’s gums bleed.

Accidental injuries with medical instruments, subcutaneous and intramuscular injections

Infection occurs in 0.2-1% of cases if there was contact with the biological fluid of an HIV-infected person.

Blood transfusion and organ transplantation

Infection - in 100% of cases if the donor was HIV-positive.

On a note

The likelihood of infection depends on the initial state of the person’s immune system: the weaker it is, the faster infection occurs, and the more severe the disease. In addition, it matters what the viral load of an HIV-infected person is; if it is high, then the risk of infection increases several times.

Diagnosis of HIV infection

It is quite complex because its symptoms appear a long time after infection and are similar to other diseases. That's why The main method of early diagnosis is testing for HIV infection.

Methods for diagnosing HIV infection

Developed a long time ago and constantly improved, reducing the risk of both false negatives and false positive results to a minimum. Most often Blood is used for diagnosis. However, there are test systems for detecting HIV in saliva (scraping from the oral mucosa) and in urine, but they have not yet found widespread use.

Available three main stages of diagnosis HIV infections in adults:

Preliminary- screening (sorting), which serves to select presumably infected individuals
Referential

Confirming- expert

The need for several stages is due to the fact that more complicated method, the more expensive and labor-intensive it is.

Some concepts in the context of diagnosing HIV infection:

Antigen- the virus itself or its particles (proteins, fats, enzymes, capsule particles, and so on).
Antibody- cells produced by the immune system in response to HIV entering the body.
Seroconversion- immune response. Once in the body, HIV multiplies rapidly. In response, the immune system begins to produce antibodies, the concentration of which increases over the next few weeks. And only when their number reaches a certain level (seroconversion), they are detected by special test systems. Then the level of the virus drops, and the immune system calms down.
"Window period"- the interval from the moment of infection to the appearance of seroconversion (on average 6-12 weeks). This is the most dangerous period, since the risk of HIV transmission is high, and the test system gives a false negative result

Screening stage

Definition total antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2 using enzyme immunoassay- ELISA . It is usually informative 3-6 months after infection. However, sometimes it detects antibodies a little earlier: three to five weeks after dangerous contact.

It is preferable to use fourth generation test systems. They have one feature - in addition to antibodies, they also detect the HIV antigen - p-24-Capsid, which makes it possible to identify the virus even before production sufficient level antibodies, reducing the “window period”.

However, in most countries, outdated third or even second generation test systems (only detect antibodies) are still used, because they are cheaper.

However, they are more often give false positive results: if there is an infectious disease during pregnancy, autoimmune processes(rheumatism, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis), the presence of the Epstein-Bar virus in the body and some other diseases.

If the ELISA result is positive, then the diagnosis of HIV infection is not made, but proceeds to the next stage of diagnosis.

Reference stage

It is carried out with more sensitive test systems 2-3 times. In case of two positive results, proceed to the third stage.

Expert stage - immunoblotting

A method in which antibodies to individual HIV proteins are determined.

Consists of several stages:

HIV is broken down into antigens using electrophoresis.
using the blotting method (in a special chamber), they are transferred to special strips on which proteins characteristic of HIV are already applied.
The patient's blood is applied to the strips; if it contains antibodies to the antigens, a reaction occurs that is visible on the test strips.

However, the result may be false negative, since there are sometimes not enough antibodies in the blood - during the “window period” or in the terminal stages of AIDS.

Therefore there are two options for conducting the expert stage laboratory diagnosis of HIV infection:

First option	Second option

Available another sensitive diagnostic method HIV infection - polymerase chain reaction (PCR) - determination of DNA and RNA of the virus. However, it has a significant drawback - a high percentage of false positive results. Therefore, it is used in combination with other methods.

Diagnosis in children born from HIV-infected mothers

It has its own characteristics, since maternal antibodies to HIV may be present in the child’s blood, which penetrate the placenta. They are present from the moment of birth, remaining until 15-18 months of life. However, the absence of antibodies does not indicate that the child is not infected.

Diagnostic tactics

up to 1 month - PCR, since the virus does not multiply intensively during this period
older than a month - determination of p24-Capsid antigen
laboratory diagnostic examination and observation from birth to 36 months

Symptoms and signs of HIV in men and women

Diagnosis is difficult because clinical manifestations similar to symptoms of other infections and diseases. In addition, HIV infection progresses differently in different people.

Stages of HIV infection

According to the Russian clinical classification HIV infection (V.I. Pokrovsky)

HIV infection symptoms

The first stage is incubation
The virus is actively reproducing. Duration - from the moment of infection to 3-6 weeks (sometimes up to one year). In case of weakened immunity - up to two weeks.
Symptoms
None. You can be suspicious if there was a dangerous situation: unprotected casual sexual contact, blood transfusion, and so on. Test systems do not detect antibodies in the blood.
The second stage - primary manifestations
The body's immune response to the introduction, reproduction and massive spread of HIV. The first symptoms appear within the first three months after infection; they may precede seroconversion. Duration is usually 2-3 weeks (rarely several months).
Flow options
2A - Asymptomatic There are no manifestations of the disease. There is only the production of antibodies.

2B - Acute infection without secondary diseases It is observed in 15-30% of patients. Proceeds as an acute viral infection or infectious mononucleosis.

Most common symptoms

The diseases are treatable, but require more long-term use drugs.

4B. Occurs 7-10 years after infection with a CD4 lymphocyte level of 350-200 CD4/mm3.
Characterized by diseases and conditions:
- Loss of body weight more than 10% in 6 months. There is weakness.
- Increase in body temperature to 38.0-38.5 0 C for more than 1 month.
- Chronic diarrhea (diarrhea) for more than 1 month develops as a result of both direct damage to the intestinal mucosa by the virus and the addition of a secondary infection, usually mixed.
- Leukoplakia is the growth of the papillary layer of the tongue: white thread-like formations appear on its lateral surface, sometimes on the mucous membrane of the cheeks. Its emergence - bad sign for disease prognosis.
- Deep lesions of the skin and mucous membranes (candidiasis, simple herpes, molluscum contagiosum, rubrophytia, lichen versicolor and others) with a protracted course.
- Repeated and persistent bacterial (tonsillitis, pneumonia), viral (cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Bar virus, herpes simplex) infections.
- Repeated or widespread shingles caused by the varicella zoster virus.
- Localized (non-spread) Kaposi's sarcoma is a malignant tumor of the skin that develops from the vessels of the lymphatic and circulatory system.
- Pulmonary tuberculosis.

Without HAART, diseases are long-lasting and recurrent (symptoms return again).

4B. Develops 10-12 years after infection when the CD4 lymphocyte level is less than 200 CD4/mm3. Life-threatening diseases arise.
Characterized by diseases and conditions:
- Extreme exhaustion, lack of appetite and severe weakness. Patients are forced to spend more than a month in bed.
- Pneumocystis pneumonia (caused by a yeast-like fungus) is a marker of HIV infection.
- Often recurrent herpes, manifested by non-healing erosions and ulcers on the mucous membranes.
- Protozoal diseases: cryptosporidiosis and isosporosis (affect the intestines), toxoplasmosis (focal and diffuse brain lesions, pneumonia) - markers of HIV infection.
- Candidiasis of the skin and internal organs: esophagus, respiratory tract, etc.
- Extrapulmonary tuberculosis: bones, meninges, intestines and other organs.
- Common Kaposi's sarcoma.
- Mycobacterioses that affect the skin, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, central nervous system and other internal organs. Mycobacteria are present in water, soil, and dust. They cause disease only in HIV-infected people.
- Cryptococcal meningitis is caused by a fungus that is present in the soil. IN healthy body usually does not occur.
- Diseases of the central nervous system: dementia, movement disorders, forgetfulness, decreased ability to concentrate, slowed thinking abilities, gait disturbance, personality changes, clumsiness in the hands. Develops both due to the direct impact of HIV on nerve cells for a long time, and as a result of complications developed after illnesses.
- Malignant tumors of any location.
- Damage to the kidneys and heart caused by HIV infection.

All infections are severe and difficult to treat. However, the fourth stage is reversible spontaneously or due to ongoing HAART.

Fifth stage - terminal
Develops when the CD4 cell count is below 50-100 CD4/mm3. At this stage, all existing diseases progress; treatment of secondary infections is ineffective. The patient’s life depends on HAART, but, unfortunately, it, as well as the treatment of secondary diseases, are ineffective. Therefore, patients usually die within a few months.
There is a classification of HIV infection according to WHO, but it is less structured, so mostly specialists prefer to work according to Pokrovsky’s classification.

Important!

The given data on the stages and their manifestations of HIV infection are averaged. Not all patients go through the stages sequentially, sometimes “skipping” through them or staying at a certain stage for a long time.

Therefore, the course of the disease can be quite long (up to 20 years) or short-lived (cases of fulminant course are known, when patients died within 7-9 months from the moment of infection). This is associated with the characteristics of the patient’s immune system (for example, some have few CD4 lymphocytes or initially reduced immunity), as well as the type of HIV.

HIV infection in men

The symptoms fit into the usual clinical picture, without any specific manifestations.

HIV infection in women

As a rule, they have violations menstrual cycle(irregular periods with the presence of intermenstrual bleeding), and menstruation itself is painful.

Women have a slightly higher risk of developing malignant tumors on the cervix.

Moreover, they have inflammatory processes female genital organs occur more often (more than three times a year) than in healthy women, and are more severe.

HIV infection in children

The course does not differ from that of adults, but there is a difference - they are somewhat behind in physical and mental development from peers.

Treatment of HIV infection

Unfortunately, there is no drug yet that can completely cure this disease. However, there are medications that significantly reduce the reproduction of the virus, prolonging the life of patients.

Moreover, these drugs are so effective that when proper treatment CD4 cells are growing, and HIV itself is difficult to detect in the body even with the most sensitive methods.

To achieve this you The patient must have self-discipline:

taking medication at the same time
compliance with dosage and diet
continuity of treatment

Therefore, recently, patients with HIV infection are increasingly dying from diseases common to all people: heart disease, diabetes, and so on.

Main directions of treatment

Prevent and delay the development of life-threatening conditions
Ensure longer preservation of the quality of life of infected patients
With the help of HAART and prevention of secondary diseases, achieve remission (no clinical symptoms)
Emotional and practical support for patients
Providing free drugs

Principles for prescribing HAART

First stage

No treatment is prescribed. However, if there was contact with an HIV-infected person, then chemoprophylaxis is recommended in the first three days after contact.

Second stage

2A. No treatment unless the CD4 count is less than 200 CD4/mm3

2B. Treatment is prescribed, but if the CD4 lymphocyte count is more than 350 CD4/mm3, it is withheld.

2B. Treatment is prescribed if the patient has manifestations characteristic of stage 4, but with the exception of cases when the level of CD4 lymphocytes is more than 350 CD4/mm3.

Third stage

HAART is prescribed if the CD4 lymphocyte count is less than 200 CD4/mm3, and the HIV RNA level is more than 100,000 copies, or the patient actively wishes to begin therapy.

Fourth stage

Treatment is prescribed if the CD4 count is less than 350 CD4/mm3 or the HIV RNA number is more than 100,000 copies.

Fifth stage

Treatment is always prescribed.

On a note

HAART is prescribed to children regardless of the stage of the disease.

These are the existing standards for the treatment of HIV infection today. But recent studies have shown that starting HAART earlier produces better results. Therefore, it is likely that these recommendations will be revised soon.

Medicines used to treat HIV

Nucleoside inhibitors of viral reverse transcriptase (Didanosine, Lamivudine, Zidovudine, Abacovir, Stavudine, Zalcitabine)
Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (Nevirapine, Ifavirenz, Delavirdine)
Viral protease (enzyme) inhibitors (Saquinavir, Indinavir, Nelfinavir, ritonavir, nelfinavir)

When prescribing treatment, as a rule, several drugs are combined.

However, it will soon hit the market new drug -Quad, which promises to radically change the lives of people living with HIV. Because it works faster, it has fewer side effects. In addition, it solves the problem of HIV drug resistance. And patients will no longer have to swallow handfuls of pills. Because the new medicine combines the effects of several drugs to treat HIV infection, and is taken once a day.

Prevention of HIV infection

“It is easier to prevent any disease than to treat it later.”

There is probably not a person who disagrees with this statement. This also applies to HIV/AIDS. Therefore, most countries are implementing various programs to reduce the rate of spread of this infection.

However, we will talk about what everyone can do. After all, it doesn’t take much effort to protect yourself and your loved ones from this plague.

Preventing HIV/AIDS among people at increased risk

Heterosexual and homosexual contacts

Most the right way- have one sexual partner whose HIV status is known.

Engage in casual sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal) only using a condom. The most reliable are latex ones with standard lubricant.

However, even in this case there is no 100% guarantee, since the size of HIV is smaller than the pores of latex, which can let it through. In addition, with intense friction, the latex pores expand, allowing the virus to pass through more easily.

But the likelihood of infection is still reduced to almost zero if you use a condom correctly: you must put it on before sexual intercourse, make sure that there is no air left between the latex and the penis (there is a risk of rupture), and always use a condom in accordance with the size.

Almost all condoms made from other materials do not protect against HIV at all.

Intravenous drug use

Drug addiction and HIV often go hand in hand, so the most reliable way- refusal to take intravenous drugs.

However, if you still choose this path, you must take precautions:

Individual and single use of sterile medical syringes
Preparation of solution for injection in sterile individual containers

Pregnant woman infected with HIV It is better to determine your HIV status before pregnancy. If it is positive, the woman is examined and all the risks associated with pregnancy are explained (the likelihood of infection of the fetus, worsening of the disease in the mother, etc.). In the case when an HIV-infected woman nevertheless decides to become a mother, conception should be as safe as possible in order to reduce the risk of infection of the fetus:

using a self-insemination kit (HIV-negative partner)

sperm purification followed by insemination (both partners are HIV positive)

in vitro fertilization

It is necessary to exclude factors that increase the permeability of the placenta to HIV: smoking, alcohol and drugs. It is important to treat STDs chronic diseases (diabetes, pyelonephritis and so on), since they also increase the permeability of the placenta.

Taking medications:

HAART (if necessary) for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes depending on the stage of pregnancy
multivitamins
iron supplements and others

In addition, a woman should protect herself as much as possible from possible other infectious diseases.

It is important to submit everything on time necessary tests: determine viral load, CD4 cell level, smears, etc.

Medical staff

There is a risk of infection if the activity involves penetration through natural barriers (skin, mucous membranes) and manipulations during which they come into contact with biological fluids.

Prevention of infection

use of protective equipment: glasses, gloves, mask and protective clothing

promptly dispose of the used needle in a special puncture-proof container

contact with HIV-infected biological fluid - chemoprophylaxis - taking complex HAART according to the regimen

contact with a suspected infected body fluid:
- skin injury (puncture or cut) - the bleeding does not need to be stopped for a few seconds, then treat the injury site with 700C alcohol

contact with biological fluid on undamaged areas of the body - wash with running water and soap, then wipe with 700C alcohol

contact with eyes - rinse with running water

in the mouth - rinse with 700C alcohol

on clothes - remove them and soak them in one of the disinfectants (chloramine and others), and wipe the skin underneath with 70% alcohol

for shoes - wipe twice with a rag soaked in one of the disinfectant solutions

on walls, floors, tiles - pour disinfectant solution for 30 minutes, then wipe

How is HIV transmitted?

Healthy man becomes infected from an HIV-infected person at any stage of the disease when an infectious dose enters the bloodstream.

Methods of transmission of the virus

Unprotected sexual intercourse with an HIV-infected person (heterosexual and homosexual contacts). Most often - in people who are promiscuous. The risk increases with anal sex regardless of sexual orientation.

When using intravenous drugs: sharing a non-sterile syringe or container for preparing a solution with an HIV-infected person.

From an HIV-infected woman to her child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.

When healthcare workers come into contact with contaminated biological fluid: contact with mucous membranes, injections or cuts.

Blood transfusions or organ transplants from HIV-infected people. Of course, the donor organ or blood is tested before medical procedures. However, if it falls during the window period, the test produces a false negative result.

Where can you donate blood for HIV?

Thanks to special programs, as well as adopted laws for the protection of HIV-infected people, information is not disclosed or transferred to third parties. Therefore, there should be no fear of status disclosure or discrimination in the event of positive result.

There are two types of free blood donation for HIV infection:

Anonymous The person does not give his name, but is assigned a number by which you can find out the result (for many this is more comfortable).

Confidential Laboratory staff become aware of the person's first and last name, but they maintain medical confidentiality.

Testing can be done:

at any regional AIDS center

in a city, regional or district clinic in anonymous and voluntary testing rooms, where blood is drawn to detect HIV infection.

In almost all of these institutions, a person who decides to find out his HIV status will be consulted both before and after testing, providing psychological assistance.

In addition, you can get tested at a private medical center, which is equipped with special equipment, but most likely for a fee.

Depending on the capabilities of the laboratory, the result can be obtained on the same day, after 2-3 days or after 2 weeks. Considering that testing is stressful for many people, it is better to clarify the timing in advance.

What should you do if you test positive for HIV?

Usually when you test positive for HIV infection doctor anonymously invites the patient to his place and explains:

course of the disease itself

what research still needs to be done?

how to live with this diagnosis

what treatment to take if necessary, and so on

However, if for some reason this does not happen, you need to consult an infectious disease doctor to the regional AIDS center or to a treatment and prevention facility at the place of residence.

Must be determined:

CD4 cell level

presence of viral hepatitis (B, C, D)

in some cases, p-24-Capsid antigen

All other studies are carried out according to indications: detection of STDs, determination of general immune status, markers of malignant tumors, CT scan and so on.

How can you avoid becoming infected with HIV?

Essentially, patients with HIV infection are less contagious than patients with viral hepatitis.

Who are HIV dissidents?

People who deny the existence of HIV infection.

Their beliefs are based on the following:

HIV has not been identified clearly and indisputably

They say that no one has seen it under a microscope, and also that it has not been artificially cultivated outside the human body. All that has been isolated so far is a set of proteins, and there is no evidence that they belong to only one virus.

In fact, there are plenty of photographs taken under an electron microscope.

From treatment antiviral drugs sick people die faster than from illness
This is partly true, since the very first drugs did cause a large number of side effects. However modern medicines much more effective and safer. In addition, science does not stand still, inventing more effective and safe means.
Considered a global conspiracy of pharmaceutical companies
If this were so, then pharmaceutical companies would disseminate information not about the disease itself and its treatment, but about some kind of miracle vaccine, which, by the way, does not exist to this day.
They say that AIDS is a disease of the immune system, not caused by a virus
They say it is a consequence of immunodeficiency that developed as a result of stress, after strong radiation, exposure to poison or strong drugs, and some other reasons.
Here we can contrast the fact that as soon as an HIV-infected patient starts taking HAART, his condition improves significantly.
All these statements mislead patients, therefore they refuse treatment. Whereas, when started on time, HAART slows down the course of the disease, prolonging life and allowing HIV-infected people to be full-fledged members of society: to work, give birth to healthy children, live in a normal rhythm, and so on. Therefore, it is so important to detect HIV in time and, if necessary, begin HAART.

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, also known as HIV infection (AIDS), has become one of the most important medical problems worldwide. The disease was discovered in 1981. this moment it is the most severe STI. All doctors who deal with STIs or work with people at risk of STIs should know the main symptoms of the disease; Based on medical history, assess the risk of the disease, provide advice on identifying HIV-infected people and reducing the risk of infecting other people.

Symptoms of HIV infection development

From the moment of infection to the appearance of manifestations of the disease, the incubation period passes - from 1 month to 10 years (usually about 6 months). This is followed by the initial (prodromal) period of symptoms of HIV infection, which is characterized by generalized lymphadenopathy.

Early symptoms of HIV infection include:

increased body temperature (above 38°C) with profuse sweating,

signs of general intoxication,

unmotivated diarrhea,

sinusitis.

In the manifest period (the period at the height of the disease), clinical manifestations of an opportunistic infection predominate. The most commonly observed pneumonia is caused by pneumocystis, gastrointestinal and pulmonary forms cryptosporoidosis, generalized toxoplasmosis infection, often occurring in the form of encephalitis, generalized manifestations of herpetic and cytomegalovirus infections, mycoses, bacterial infections.

Dermatological signs of HIV

Various lesions of the skin and mucous membranes are a very common manifestation of HIV infection. They occur in almost all clinical forms of the disease, and not only in the stage of developed AIDS, and have diagnostic and prognostic significance.

Almost half of the patients in the acute period develop asymptomatic, widespread, symmetrical rash, resembling a measles rash or syphilitic roseola. Localized mainly on the torso. Lasts from 3 days to 2–3 weeks. Histologically, such exanthema is characterized by perivascular infiltrates of lymphocytes and histiocytes.

Symptoms of HIV infection may also include hemorrhagic spots, up to 3 mm in diameter, similar to hemorrhagic allergic vasculitis. Such rashes can be combined with ulcerations of the mucous membranes of the mouth and esophagus and severe dysphonia. Possible addition of viral skin lesions (molluscum contagiosum).

During the period of carriage of HIV infection, it is detected seborrheic eczema, in the acute stage of the disease it is observed less frequently, and in the stage of developed AIDS - in 46–83%. In a number of patients, it is the first clinical symptom of HIV infection, sometimes occurring 1–2 years before the appearance of other clinical symptoms. The difference from eczema is that the spotted elements are located on the scalp, neck, and face.

Common fungal infections of the skin and nail plates relatively often occur with HIV infection. The disease can occur in the form of lesions typical of dermatomycosis. Atypical manifestations are noted on the face and neck; the clinical picture may resemble exudative erythema, seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis. Rubrophytosis of the palms and soles acquires signs of palmoplantar keratoderma. Pityriasis versicolor is characterized by dissemination of lesions with a tendency to infiltrate and lichenify the skin.

All dermatological manifestations that are atypical in age, localization, course, typical location, or resistance to therapy should alert the doctor.

Kaposi's sarcoma as one of the symptoms of the HIV virus

Kaposi's sarcoma– the most characteristic dermatological tumor symptom of HIV infection. The disease most often begins with the appearance on the skin lower limbs reddish-bluish spots, they increase to 5 cm or more in diameter. After some time, symptoms of HIV infection appear, such as dense elastic nodules up to the size of a pea; they can merge into infiltrative plaques and tumor-like formations. The process is accompanied by swelling. Along with rashes, there are hemorrhages with secondary deposition of hemosiderin into the skin.

Foci of sarcoma in HIV infection are localized in the middle and upper third of the dermis, less often in the lower part of the dermis, spreading into the subcutaneous fatty tissue. Histologically, it is a disordered neovascularization, proliferation of spindle cells resembling sarcoma cells.

Clinical signs, distinguishing Kaposi's sarcoma associated with HIV infection from the classical form (in elderly people):

young age (up to 35 years);

more severe, progressive course;

widespread nature of skin lesions with rapid generalization of the process and involvement of the mucous membranes of the mouth, lymph nodes, and internal organs.

Also, Kaposi's sarcoma associated with HIV infection is characterized by the absence therapeutic effect from the treatment and high mortality in the first 1–2 years after its occurrence. Damage to peripheral lymph nodes in patients may precede the appearance of clinical symptoms of HIV infection on the skin and mucous membranes. This is a feature of Kaposi's sarcoma. From others tumor processes Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral mucosa and anorectal region is observed.

Complications of HIV infection

Herpes simplex distinguished by heavy chronic course with the formation of ulcerative lesions, the spread of herpetic eruptions to various areas of the skin and mucous membranes. Ulcerative herpetic lesions are significantly painful. The only therapeutic agent that can alleviate the condition in such patients and even cause temporary remission is acyclovir administered intravenously.

Shingles can occur at any time and vary in severity. Relapses of the disease are possible.

"Hairy" leukoplakia of the oral mucosa has so far been described only in patients with symptoms of HIV infection. The causative agent is believed to be the Epstein-Barr virus or human papillomaviruses. Usually localized in the posterior and middle third of the lateral surface of the tongue in contact with the teeth; There are no subjective sensations. Histologically, it corresponds to the elements of simple warts.

Candidiasis on the mucous membrane begins with thrush, however, unlike ordinary candidiasis in patients with symptoms of HIV infection, the resulting white plaque quickly fuses with the underlying mucous membrane and is not removed by scraping. After forced removal there are bleeding erosions. Candida rashes are practically untreatable. You can try to improve the condition of patients by using nizoral.

HIV diagnosis

Based clinical picture HIV infection may be suspected. To confirm the diagnosis, tests for antibodies to HIV are necessary. Many cases of the asymptomatic phase of HIV infection are detected during mass examinations. To determine the concentration of viral RNA, the reverse PCR method is used. The dynamics of viral RNA concentration allows us to judge the effectiveness of treatment, the degree of infectiousness of the patient and the prognosis of AIDS.

Methods for detecting proviral DNA using PCR are used primarily for scientific purposes. HIV genotyping and phenotyping are used to identify pathogen resistance to antiretroviral drugs.

Absolute indications to be screened for symptoms of HIV infection are:

acute febrile stage;

Kaposi's sarcoma in young people and in an unusual location;

hairy leukoplakia of the tongue;

proximal onychomycosis on the hands;

bacterial angiomatosis;

eosinophilic folliculitis;

chronic ulcerative herpes;

molluscum contagiosum in an adult.

How to treat HIV infection?

Once the HIV virus has entered the body, it goes into a state of hibernation. This condition can last from one month to several years. There have been cases where people were carriers for 20 years. The incubation period directly depends on the condition of the body, lifestyle and medications taken. Treatment consists of maintaining the body's immune defenses. It is necessary to avoid diseases, since even with a weakened immune system slight cold without treatment can be fatal.

Antiretroviral drugs include HIV protease inhibitors (Indinavir, Ritonavir, Nelfinavir), nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (Zidovudine, Didanosine, Zalcitabine, Stavudine, Lamivudine) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (Nevirapine, Delavirdine). Combined treatment reduces the concentration of viral RNA, slows the progression of immunodeficiency, increases the life expectancy of patients, and prevents the development of infection when administered after sexual intercourse.

The prognosis for life is unfavorable.

Folk remedies for HIV

The infection is the plague of the 21st century. At this stage of development, absolutely not effective medicine from this problem. A remedy has not yet been found that could completely destroy deadly microorganisms. Many, having lost faith in traditional methods treatment, choose AIDS treatment with folk remedies. Based on the interpretation of this problem, the disease leads to a decline in human immunity, while immune bodies in the blood are actively destroyed. The main drugs for treating HIV using folk remedies include:

St. John's wort decoctions - they help keep the infection at rest. To make a decoction, it must be dried and ground into powder, mixed with sea buckthorn oil and water. The proportions are respectively 2:1:10. The herb is boiled in boiling water for about 60 minutes. After this, the liquid is filtered and oil is added to it. The composition is actively mixed and left for 48 hours. You need to use this folk remedy 100 ml 4 times a day.
Treatment with sprunella decoction. This plant is very difficult to buy, as it very rarely appears in pharmacies. 100 grams of the plant are brewed in 3 liters of boiling water, then infused for 180 minutes and filtered. 100 grams of crushed dry nettle is poured into the liquid. Everything is boiled over low heat for about 60 minutes and filtered again. It is necessary to take 200 ml per day.
Decoctions from licorice root. It will perfectly reduce infection particles in the blood, while increasing immunity. A decoction for treating HIV is very simple to prepare. 100 grams of roots are boiled for about 60 minutes, after which 6 large spoons of honey are filtered and dissolved. On an empty stomach you need to drink a glass of decoction. It's best to do this in the morning.
Calendula infusion. This folk remedy is drunk on an empty stomach, 2 drops daily. Then throughout the day, drink another drop every hour, then 2 more drops at night. Take it with the following schedule: drink for 3 days, break for 3 days.

Causes of development and prevention of HIV

The causative agent of AIDS is a human T-lymphotropic virus, which belongs to the retrovirus family. Since 1986, the designation human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV infection), has been introduced. Retroviruses contain an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. The pathogen penetrates through microtraumas of the skin (contact with blood) and mucous membranes of the genital tract or rectum. From the moment of infection to the appearance of the first symptoms of infection, the incubation period passes - from 1 month to 4-6 years.

The basis of the pathogenesis of HIV infection is the T-lymphotropy of the virus. Persistence and accumulation of the virus occurs in lymphoid tissue. By multiplying in T 4 cells (happers), AIDS viruses destroy them. But from time to time, HIV infection enters the blood and can be detected in the discharge. With the advent clinical symptoms viremia becomes more intense.

Immune deficiency leads to the activation of a latent infection or the addition of an opportunistic infection caused by opportunistic microorganisms. It is these diseases that usually lead to the death of patients in the next 1–2 years after the appearance of the first clinical symptoms of HIV infection. The higher the concentration of viral RNA in the plasma, the higher the risk of infection. The concentration of viral RNA in plasma is high during the acute febrile stage of HIV infection and with severe immunodeficiency.

Routes of transmission of AIDS

Laboratory and epidemiological studies indicate that STIs that manifest as genital ulcers (syphilis, genital herpes), cause inflammatory changes (gonorrhea, trichomoniasis), and, possibly, a number of non-inflammatory diseases of the genital organs (bacterial vaginosis), increase the risk of transmission and HIV infection through sexual contact.

It is likely that the different incidence and prevalence of STIs determine the different proportion of HIV infections during heterosexual sexual intercourse in different countries of the world. HIV is transmitted sexually (through homosexual and heterosexual contacts), through transfusion of blood and its preparations, from an infected mother to a newborn in the prenatal period, during childbirth or during breastfeeding.

The most common route of transmission of HIV infection worldwide is sexual. Transmission through kissing is unlikely. HIV transmission through sexual contact contributes to

other STIs,

traumatic sexual contacts,

Possibly bacterial vaginosis

sex during menstruation

and taking oral contraceptives.

The risk of HIV transmission from men to women is higher than from women to men. Condoms and other barrier contraceptives reduce the risk of contracting HIV through sexual contact. The age at which the highest probability of infection through sexual contact and drug use is 25–39 years (58% of AIDS patients); under 50 years of age (89%). Persons without severe AIDS symptoms can be sources of infection. Markers of the risk of HIV infection are homosexual sexual contacts, residence in a region with high prevalence HIV infection, injection drug use, STIs in the past or present.

Prevention of STI infections

An important preventive role belongs to the active identification of infected people using modern test systems among donors of blood, sperm, organs and tissues, as well as the examination of risk groups - homosexuals, prostitutes, drug addicts, sexual partners of patients with HIV infection. The complex of venereological examination necessarily includes testing for HIV infection.

Many people are interested in whether HIV can be cured forever. An effective remedy are sought among both traditional and folk medicine. So far, all therapy is aimed at strengthening the immune system. Results can be achieved using both antiretroviral treatment and folk remedies. This is evidenced by positive reviews sick.

Finding out whether HIV can be cured forever

HIV itself is not a fatal disease, but it poses a huge danger. The virus acts on the body's immune cells, T-leukocytes. They are the ones who recognize the threat and organize the fight. And HIV lowers the body's defenses and leads to the inability to defeat even the slightest virus.

In the final stages of HIV, even a common cold can be fatal.

The question of the possibility of treating HIV remains open. It can be answered either positively or negatively. It all depends on the correctness of the question posed.

Statement wording:

Treatment – restoration of the body due to the effects of a specific disease;
Cure is the complete destruction of the cause of the disease.

Based on these concepts, it can be argued that HIV is being treated. Therapy involves the use of strong medications (antiretrovirals) that reduce the activity of the virus in the body. The immune system stops being attacked and can work for the benefit of the body. But AIDS is incurable. Although scientists all over the world are working to find an effective medicine.

Ways to boost your immunity against HIV yourself

HIV must also be fought. In addition to drug therapy, you can take a number of actions on your own. These are common ways to boost your immunity.

Methods to boost immunity:

All actions must begin as early as possible. There, walk more in the fresh air, get stronger, play sports. Eat fresh vegetables and fruits. They will provide the body with the necessary vitamins and nutrients.
The body must receive the right amount of vitamins and minerals. This will ensure proper nutrition and special additives, vitamin complexes. But before taking them, you need to consult your doctor.
You should be more attentive to diseased organs and follow all doctor’s instructions. Several times a year you will need to undergo a full detailed examination of the body.
Make time for physical activity. However, not all sports are equally beneficial for the body. Drug therapy can reduce the manifestations of the disease so that a person does not limit himself in activity.

No need to be nervous. Healthy sleep must be present - at least 8 hours a day. If you have AIDS you can't for a long time be exposed to sunlight.

Standard drug treatment for HIV

HIV treatment is carried out in accordance with a special protocol. There are two treatment regimens for the disease. At the same time, all drugs to combat immunodeficiency syndrome are prescribed in detail.

Hospitalization of the patient is carried out when the disease is too advanced or secondary diseases progress.

Before treating a patient, the diagnosis of HIV must be confirmed. It is important not to confuse the disease with other similar symptoms. Treatment is selected taking into account the stage of development of the disease, the general condition of the patient and his other diseases.

Groups of antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV:

Nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors;
Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors;
Drugs acting on cell proliferation;
Viral protease inhibitors.

The prescription and dosage of medications is determined by experienced doctor. Only a specialist can determine the best option, based on the stage of the disease and its advanced state. In addition, the above medications have unpleasant side effects. Treatment should be supervised by a knowledgeable person.

Option for curing HIV with antiretroviral therapy

Significant success can be achieved with the use of antiretroviral therapy. But there are a number of factors that carry a certain risk. So there is a chance of heart disease if the patient is over 45 years old, inactive, diabetic, smokes a lot or has hereditary predisposition to heart diseases.

High cholesterol levels also matter. All factors will emerge when side effects antiretroviral treatment. But the results of treatment outweigh the risks. But before therapy, the condition should be immediately assessed of cardio-vascular system. However, the treatment may not have any effect.

Reasons why antiretroviral therapy does not bring results:

Viruses are quite resistant to the effects of medications or their complex;
The medication regimen is violated;
Medicines do not dissolve in the body as they should;
More powerful drugs are required;
Too strong side effects.

Absolute effectiveness cannot be guaranteed by any of the drugs, nor by their combinations. But with proper treatment, a reduction in viral load can be achieved. This is noticeable progress.

Scientists have found that people who take the first combination of drugs for a long time have achieved greater success than those who have already changed several options.

For some, antiretroviral therapy is not available, but people still feel great. It is impossible to get rid of HIV infection with this treatment. These drugs slow down the progression of the disease and allow the immune system to recover.

Popular DIY folk remedies for HIV infection

HIV attacks the immune system. That is why all folk remedies are aimed at strengthening it. These are usually herbal recipes.

Treatment with folk remedies:

Tincture of calendula;
Decoction of dead meat;
Green tea;
Kvass made from banana peels.

It is recommended to take 2 drops of calendula tincture on an empty stomach in the morning and evening. You should also take 1 drop of medication every hour throughout the day. Banana peel kvass has a simple recipe. You need 3 cups of crushed main ingredient. Then add 3 liters of chilled boiled water, a glass of sugar and 15 g of sour cream. The mixture is covered and left to infuse for 2 weeks. After this time, kvass is taken before meals 4 times a day.

To make a decoction of dead meat, take 2 teaspoons of the main ingredient and pour in 500 ml of liquid. Bring the ingredients to a boil, reduce the heat and cook for two hours. Then the broth is filtered and propolis is added. The use of the medicine is treated with great caution. The optimal dose is 1 tablespoon after meals.

When consuming a decoction of dead fish, you will need to completely abstain from alcohol.

Green tea is considered the most simple means in the fight against HIV. The product contains cahetins, which slow down the reproduction of the virus. It is recommended to drink 2 cups of green tea daily.

Prevention and treatment of HIV (video)

The most dangerous disease should be treated in the initial stages. There are no specific methods of therapy. Best used in combination traditional medicine And folk options strengthening the immune system.

HIV can be cured. Is this true or not? And if it is true, then how and where can this be done?

Treatment is the action when the body recovers from a given disease.
Cure is the complete destruction of the disease.
Many say that sometimes infected cells are nothing more than viral incubators, in which the virus remains in a latent state for a very long time, without spreading and no medications affect it in an effective way. However, not so long ago, some achievements of scientists showed us that it may actually be possible to find a way to remove this virus from cellular storage. This will likely eradicate HIV forever, or simply reduce the number of viral cells in the body so much that people probably won't need antiretroviral therapy.

HIV is curable: myth or reality?

The famous “Armenicum”, having become famous throughout the planet, has not yet completely cured the sick Kolya Kolesnikov: he is still infected (HIV stage 1b) and is also disappointed. These are mainly young people under 25 who were drug addicts in their recent past. Ivan was admitted to the regional AIDS center, and on December 13, 2000, in the laboratory of A.G. Pokrovsky State Research Center "Vector" had his blood tested for HIV virus levels. The result of this analysis revealed 500,000 copies of the virus in 1 milliliter of blood serum, which once again confirms Why can't HIV be cured completely?

AIDS is a disease. An HIV-infected person, therefore, is a carrier of this virus, but it (the virus) has not yet fully penetrated the body to such an extent that it can be concluded that this person is infected with AIDS. With HIV, with the right lifestyle and procedures, there is a high probability that a person will live to old age you just need:

— Quit the habit of smoking, using drugs and alcohol;
- Do not fall into depression;
— Take healthy foods and appropriate vitamins;
— Play sports, etc.

Also, scientists from Italy finally managed to find a way to cure HIV. These scientists propose a method such as a liver transplant, supposedly this will help prolong the life of those who are sick with this virus. But the effectiveness of this method has not been proven.
But still the best cure for AIDS is physical exercise. They effectively cope with weight loss in people infected with HIV infection.

German doctors managed to cure HIV

For this purpose they use very strong drugs(antiretroviral), which can reduce the activity of the virus in the body. But can the virus be cured? Scientists from all fields of medicine are looking for newest ways therapy to stop 21st century disease. There is only one known case in the world in which the patient fully recovered. This person’s body began to produce healthy immune cells, and the level of this virus in this person’s blood decreased. More than ten years ago, scientists figured out how to treat HIV and prolong the life of patients to the maximum possible time.