Question

One of the most noted secondary immunodeficiencies occurs with infection by the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV. In the United States, over 1 million individuals are infected with HIV annually. HIV infects CD4 cells, also called helper T cells. The virus can remain dormant in these cells until they begin to replicate. As CD4 cells replicate the virus, the cells are destroyed, and the body’s immune responses weaken. The symptoms that appear following HIV infection are usually mild and flu-like. A slight fever and lymphadenopathy may be present, but the patient may not seek medical attention. Then the patient becomes asymptomatic. The earliest, most sensitive test for diagnosis of acute HIV is the HIV RNA assay, which measures viral loads. Another hallmark of HIV infection is the inversion of the CD4 to CD8 ratio.

In time, the body develops antibodies to HIV. The time frame from initial infection to measurable antibody production is known as the window period when the patient is serologically negative. Seroconversion occurs with detectable antibody levels in the bloodstream. The Western Blot test measures antibodies and confirms the presence of HIV. A normal CD4 cell count is 700. When CD4 levels fall below 200 cells/µL, opportunistic infections may overwhelm the body. Such infections include recurring candida infection, Pneumocystis jirovecii, pneumonia, toxoplasmosis, cryptococcus, and tuberculosis. At this point, the HIV infection has progressed to AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

Which of the following results in classification of AIDS?

A) Seroconversion for HIV antibody.

B) CD4 count of 190 cells per microliter and Pneumocystic infection.

C) Significant increase in the CD4: CD8 ratio.

D) CD4 levels greater than 500 cells per microliter.

Answer 1

answer:b)CD4 count of 190 cellls per microliter and pneumocystic infection.

explanation: