AIDS

AIDS

Definition AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV infection, characterized by a significant decline in the body's immune system, making it unable to fight off infections and diseases.

Pathogenesis HIV attacks and destroys CD4 T cells, which are essential for the immune system to function properly.

1 → HIV binds to CD4 receptors on the surface of T cells. 2 → HIV enters the T cells through a process called endocytosis. 3 → HIV uses the T cell's machinery to replicate itself. 4 → HIV destroys the T cell, releasing more virus particles.

Clinical Features

1. Recurring infections: Opportunistic infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and candidiasis.
2. Persistent diarrhea: Caused by opportunistic infections or HIV itself.
3. Swollen lymph nodes: In the neck, armpits, and groin areas.
4. Weight loss: Due to malabsorption of nutrients.
5. Fatigue: Due to the body's weakened immune system.
6. Skin rash: Caused by opportunistic infections or HIV itself.
7. White spots on the tongue: Caused by oral thrush.
8. Memory loss: Due to HIV-related neurocognitive disorders.

Types of HIV There are two main types of HIV:

1. HIV-1: More virulent and spread rapidly worldwide.
2. HIV-2: Less virulent and primarily found in West Africa.

Causes HIV is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which is transmitted through:

1. Sexual contact: Unprotected sex with an infected person.
2. Mother-to-child transmission: During pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
3. Blood transfusions: Receiving blood from an infected donor.
4. Needle sharing: Sharing needles with an infected person.

Investigations Diagnosis of AIDS is based on:

1. ELISA test: Detects HIV antibodies in the blood.
2. Western blot test: Confirms the presence of HIV antibodies.
3. CD4 count: Measures the number of CD4 T cells in the blood.
4. Physical examination: To assess the severity of symptoms.

Complications If left untreated, HIV can lead to:

1. AIDS-related cancers: Kaposi's sarcoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and invasive cervical cancer.
2. Neurological disorders: HIV-related cognitive disorders, dementia, and seizures.
3. Cardiovascular disease: Increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Management and Treatment Treatment of AIDS involves:

1. Antiretroviral therapy (ART): Combination of medications to suppress HIV replication.
2. Prophylaxis: Preventing opportunistic infections with antibiotics and antifungals.
3. Supportive care: Managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Homoeopathic Therapeutic Approach Treatment of AIDS with homoeopathy involves:

1. Arsenicum album: For symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and malaise.
2. Calcarea carbonica: For symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and weight loss.
3. Phosphorus: For symptoms like diarrhea, stomach problems, and skin rashes.
4. Lycopodium: For symptoms like memory loss, confusion, and mood changes.

Indications Homoeopathic remedies can be used to manage symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with AIDS. However, they should not be used as a replacement for conventional treatment.