Mid-term Study GuidePERS 2002September 27, 2012- Define HIV/AIDS- HIV (human immunodeficiency virus): causes aids. The infection results in progressive deterioration of the immune system, breaking down immune. -AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome)- most advanced stages of HIV infection. Occurrence of anymore than 20 infections/ related cancers.- Historical perspectives on HIV (e,g. origins) – present in the US, Europe, Africa for many decades. First identified in 1984.- Transmission of the virus o Sexualo Bloodo Perinatal transmission o Occupational transmission - Identify HIV/AIDS Risk behaviors- What is HIV/AIDS Incidence?- the number of people who become newly infected with HIV- What is HIV/AIDS prevalence- the number of people living with HIV with or without diagnoses.- How does the virus affect the immune system?- attacks and weakens the immune system. Destroys the helper t cells(lymphocytes). - What is viral load?- measures the amount of HIV in the blood system. - What does it mean to be undetectable (viral load)? – the viral load cannot be detected, however that does not mean that you’re cured. You can still infect others.- Differential Diagnosis of HIV- Mono. Influenza, Viral hepatitis, Strep, Secondary syphilis, taxoplasosis.- Screening and testing- rapid testing, ora-quick (quick, inexpensive, behavior change). Elisa and Western Blot(most effective) are HIV antibodies tested in the blood plasma.- What happens during window period?- HIV test is usually normal. False negative. Can still transmit. CD4 normal. Counseling important. Infants- two years of age. Polymerase (detects RNA- 2 weeks).- What is seroconversion? – during this phase, the infection is established and a proviral reservoir is created. This reservoir consists of persistently infected cells, typically macrophages, and appears to steadily release virus. Some of the viral release replenishes the reservoir, and some go on to produce more active infection. Most convert by 3 to 6 months.- What happens during the asymptomatic stage?- the patient looks and feels great but the HIV is active. CD4 levels declines but the viral load is stable, even without treatment.- What is rapid testing?- testing results in less than 15 mins. Lower test costs, ease of use, accurate. Same day post test counseling and better medical treatment.- Confirming HIV-positive test- pre and post test counseling. - Symptoms of HIV/AIDS- swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight, long term fevers, fatigue, thrush, facial wasting, night sweats.- Ethical considerations of the epidemic (individual rights, stigma, discrimination, privacy)- Privacy and confidentiality related to HIV- anonymous testing, confidential testing (results given to patient but protected by