HIV Diagnosis, Management and Prognosis

Jaspal, Rusi; Bayley, Jake

In this chapter, the biology of HIV infection is discussed, with a focus on HIV virology and patient prognosis and the process of seroconversion (very early HIV infection). Clinical issues relating to chronic inflammation and the physiological impact on the patient are described. The plethora of HIV treatments, how they function and the issues taken into consideration by the prescribing clinician are explored. The various drug regimens that are now available, including generic drugs, and the challenge of drug resistance are described. The potential challenges of existing HIV treatment and future developments in treatment are examined.