HIV superinfection
HIV Superinfection
HIV superinfection (pronounced: /ˌeɪtʃ.aɪ.ˈviː ˈsuː.pər.ɪn.fɛk.ʃən/) is a condition where an individual, already infected with HIV, is infected again by a different strain of the virus.
Etymology
The term "superinfection" is derived from the Latin prefix super- meaning "over, above" and the Latin word infectio meaning "staining, dyeing". In medical terminology, it refers to an additional infection that occurs during or following an earlier infection, especially when caused by microorganisms that are resistant or have become resistant to the antibiotics used earlier.
Definition
HIV superinfection occurs when a person infected with HIV gets infected with a different strain of the virus. It's different from HIV coinfection, where a person is infected with two different diseases at the same time. Superinfection can make the disease progress faster and make it more difficult to treat.
Symptoms
Symptoms of HIV superinfection are similar to the primary HIV infection and may include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a sore throat. However, these symptoms can be more severe and last longer than the initial infection.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of HIV superinfection can be challenging as it requires genetic testing of the virus from two different points in time. The test looks for significant differences in the two samples that would suggest a superinfection.
Treatment
Treatment for HIV superinfection is similar to the standard HIV treatment, which includes antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, the treatment may need to be adjusted depending on the strains of HIV involved in the superinfection.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for HIV superinfection are the same as those for a primary HIV infection. This includes practicing safe sex, using clean needles, and taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if at high risk.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on HIV superinfection
- Wikipedia's article - HIV superinfection
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