AIDS-related complex: Difference between revisions
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{{DISPLAYTITLE:AIDS-related complex}} | |||
== Overview == | |||
[[File:Kaposi's_Sarcoma.jpg|thumb|right|Kaposi's Sarcoma, a common manifestation of AIDS-related complex]] | |||
'''AIDS-related complex''' (ARC) is a term that was historically used to describe a set of symptoms and conditions that occur in individuals infected with the [[human immunodeficiency virus]] (HIV) but who do not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of [[acquired immunodeficiency syndrome]] (AIDS). ARC is characterized by a variety of symptoms that indicate a weakened [[immune system]], but are not severe enough to be classified as AIDS. | |||
== Symptoms == | |||
Individuals with AIDS-related complex may experience a range of symptoms, including: | |||
* Persistent [[lymphadenopathy]] (swollen lymph nodes) | |||
==Symptoms== | |||
Individuals with | |||
* Persistent [[lymphadenopathy]] | |||
* Chronic [[fever]] | * Chronic [[fever]] | ||
* Unexplained [[weight loss]] | * Unexplained [[weight loss]] | ||
* [[Fatigue]] | |||
* [[Diarrhea]] | * [[Diarrhea]] | ||
* [[Night sweats]] | * [[Night sweats]] | ||
* [[Oral thrush]] (a fungal infection in the mouth) | |||
== | == Pathophysiology == | ||
The pathophysiology of AIDS-related complex involves the progressive weakening of the immune system due to the destruction of [[CD4+ T cells]] by HIV. This weakening of the immune system makes individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain types of cancers, such as [[Kaposi's sarcoma]]. | |||
== | == Diagnosis == | ||
The diagnosis of AIDS-related complex is based on clinical symptoms and laboratory tests that indicate immune system dysfunction. It is important to differentiate ARC from full-blown AIDS, which is diagnosed when an individual has a CD4+ T cell count below 200 cells/mm_ or when they develop specific opportunistic infections or cancers. | |||
==Treatment== | == Treatment == | ||
Treatment for AIDS-related complex focuses on managing symptoms and preventing the progression to AIDS. This includes: | |||
* [[Antiretroviral therapy]] (ART) to suppress HIV replication | |||
* Prophylactic treatment to prevent opportunistic infections | |||
* Symptomatic treatment for conditions such as oral thrush and diarrhea | |||
==Related pages== | == Prognosis == | ||
With the advent of effective antiretroviral therapy, the prognosis for individuals with AIDS-related complex has improved significantly. Early initiation of ART can prevent the progression to AIDS and improve overall quality of life. | |||
== Related pages == | |||
* [[HIV/AIDS]] | * [[HIV/AIDS]] | ||
* [[Opportunistic infection]] | * [[Opportunistic infection]] | ||
* [[Antiretroviral therapy]] | * [[Antiretroviral therapy]] | ||
* [[Kaposi's sarcoma]] | * [[Kaposi's sarcoma]] | ||
[[Category:HIV/AIDS]] | [[Category:HIV/AIDS]] | ||
Revision as of 11:13, 15 February 2025
Overview
AIDS-related complex (ARC) is a term that was historically used to describe a set of symptoms and conditions that occur in individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but who do not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). ARC is characterized by a variety of symptoms that indicate a weakened immune system, but are not severe enough to be classified as AIDS.
Symptoms
Individuals with AIDS-related complex may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Persistent lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes)
- Chronic fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Night sweats
- Oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth)
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of AIDS-related complex involves the progressive weakening of the immune system due to the destruction of CD4+ T cells by HIV. This weakening of the immune system makes individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain types of cancers, such as Kaposi's sarcoma.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of AIDS-related complex is based on clinical symptoms and laboratory tests that indicate immune system dysfunction. It is important to differentiate ARC from full-blown AIDS, which is diagnosed when an individual has a CD4+ T cell count below 200 cells/mm_ or when they develop specific opportunistic infections or cancers.
Treatment
Treatment for AIDS-related complex focuses on managing symptoms and preventing the progression to AIDS. This includes:
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) to suppress HIV replication
- Prophylactic treatment to prevent opportunistic infections
- Symptomatic treatment for conditions such as oral thrush and diarrhea
Prognosis
With the advent of effective antiretroviral therapy, the prognosis for individuals with AIDS-related complex has improved significantly. Early initiation of ART can prevent the progression to AIDS and improve overall quality of life.
