HIV/AIDS

Free HIV Testing available for all patients!

Definition: Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a progressive, incurable disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Aids destroys the CD4+
T cells, impairing the immune system and predisposing the individual to a number of opportunistic infections and cancers. HIV is transmitted through intimate sexual contact, use of contaminated needles, and exposure to HIV-tainted blood, body fluids that contain blood, and blood products. It also can be transmitted from mother to newborn.

CDC Classification of HIV Infection

• Stage 1: acute infection; a mononucleosis-like syndrome develops at the time of exposure.
• Stage 2: no symptoms are present, but the individual tests positive for HIV antibody.
• Stage 3: persistent, generalized lymphadenopathy appears; decrease in CD4T cells.
• Stage 4: HIV related diseases develop.

Risk Factors

• Homosexual/Bi-sexual men
• Heterosexuals engaging in high risk behavior (IV drug use; sharing needles/syringes;
  unprotected sex with multiple partners.)
• Infants born to infected women
• Infants and children who receive HIV-contaminated blood or blood products

Signs & Symptoms

• Infection may be "silent", often lasting for > 10 years
• Viral syndrome resembling mononucleosis or influenza within a few days of infection
• Persistent generalized swelling of lymph nodes
• Skin disorders (rash, dry scaly skin, seborrhea)
• More prone to infections (bacterial, fungal, viral, etc.)
• Malignancies ( cancer can begin and spread to central nervous system, skin, mucous membranes, respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts)
• End stage symptoms may include unexpected weight loss, persistent fever, diarrhea, or night sweats

There are tests that can be performed to confirm HIV infection. There are drugs that can slow the progression or inactivate HIV. The treatment of the disease focuses on the type of infection or malignancy that the individual develops.

If you have been an IV drug user or have engaged in high risk behavior, discuss this with your counselor. A test for HIV may be done at your request for an additional fee.

Feel free to address any questions you may have regarding HIV infection with your counselor or a member of the medical staff at Private Clinic Albany.