Acute retroviral syndrome is an HIV-related infection that weakens the immune system and causes flu-like symptoms, often misdiagnosed as influenza. Early detection can prevent the spread of HIV and reduce damage to the immune system. Asymptomatic HIV infection can progress to AIDS, but antiretroviral therapy can strengthen the immune system.
Acute retroviral syndrome is an infection that affects men and women infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Symptoms of this infection, including body aches, headache, and fever, are usually the result of a weakened immune system caused by HIV. This disease is difficult to diagnose, often misclassified as influenza or another benign viral disease.
There are several names for acute retroviral syndrome, including acute HIV infection. The HIV virus causes the destruction of white blood cells known as CD4 lymphocytes, resulting in a weakened immune system and, therefore, acute retroviral syndrome. Risk factors for contracting HIV include sexual contact, contaminated blood transfusions, use of contaminated needles or syringes, childbirth, and breastfeeding by an infected mother. The early symptoms of this HIV-related infection can manifest as fatigue, weight loss, rash, sore throat, diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, and decreased appetite. In addition to flu-like symptoms, individuals with acute retroviral syndrome may also experience ulcers in the mouth and esophagus.
Many of the symptoms commonly associated with infection occur five days to four weeks after being infected with HIV. Fever is among the most common symptoms that individuals who develop this infection exhibit. Because fever is associated with other viral illnesses, including mononucleosis and influenza, patients may not be diagnosed with acute HIV infection. This can lead to a delay in medical assistance.
Blood tests accompanied by an assessment of the patient’s sexual and HIV risk factors can help identify whether acute retroviral syndrome is present. Although the human immunodeficiency virus is not curable, early detection of acute HIV infection can prevent the spread of this virus to sexual partners. Some experts believe that using antiretroviral drugs when acute retroviral syndrome is recognized can reduce the amount of damage to the immune system. Acute HIV infection can lead to advanced HIV disease, causing vulnerability to opportunistic infections and diseases. We don’t always get to this stage.
Some men and women who have acute retroviral syndrome may not experience symptoms for up to 10 years after their initial infection. This stage is commonly referred to as asymptomatic HIV infection, in which symptoms are no longer present but the immune system continues to deteriorate. Many patients eventually progress to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Experts encourage men and women who have asymptomatic HIV infection but have low CD4 cell counts to take antiretroviral therapy. This therapeutic treatment works to strengthen the immune system, preventing opportunistic infections.
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