Introduction to HIV Associated Infections
Introduction to HIV Associated Infections
Infections: A
Comprehensive
Overview
HIV weakens the immune system, leaving individuals vulnerable to a range of
opportunistic infections. These infections can be serious, even life-
threatening, and understanding their causes, symptoms, and management is
crucial for optimal patient care.
by AYUSH DWIVEDI
Overview of Opportunistic
Infections
Opportunistic infections exploit a weakened immune system and can affect
various parts of the body. These infections often present with unique
symptoms and require specific treatments.
1 Pneumonia 2 Meningitis
Infection of the lungs, often Inflammation of the
caused by fungi or bacteria. membranes surrounding the
brain and spinal cord.
1 Initial Symptoms
Early symptoms are often mild and nonspecific, such as dry
cough, fatigue, and low-grade fever.
2 Progressive Symptoms
As the infection worsens, symptoms can become more
severe, including persistent fever, shortness of breath, and
chest pain.
3 Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a chest X-ray, sputum analysis,
and blood tests to detect the presence of *Pneumocystis
jirovecii*.
Treatment and Prevention of PCP
Treatment Options Prevention Measures Importance of Early
Intervention
Treatment usually involves medications Prevention strategies include
like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylactic TMP-SMX for those with Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial
(TMP-SMX) or pentamidine. low CD4 counts and adherence to to prevent severe complications and
antiretroviral therapy. improve patient outcomes.
Toxoplasmosis: Causes and
Transmission
Causative Agent Transmission Routes
Toxoplasmosis is caused by a Transmission occurs through
parasitic protozoan called ingestion of contaminated food,
*Toxoplasma gondii*. water, or soil, or through contact
with infected cats.
Risk Factors
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, are
at increased risk of developing toxoplasmosis.
Clinical Manifestations of Toxoplasmosis
1 2 3
Candidiasis Cryptococcosis
Candida is a common fungus that Cryptococcus is a fungus that can
can cause oral thrush, esophageal cause meningitis and pneumonia.
candidiasis, and invasive candidiasis.
Aspergillosis Histoplasmosis
Aspergillus is a fungus that can Histoplasma is a fungus that can
cause lung infections and invasive cause lung infections and
aspergillosis. disseminated histoplasmosis.
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Cryptococcal meningitis is a serious infection of the brain and spinal cord
caused by the fungus *Cryptococcus neoformans*. It often presents with
headache, fever, and stiff neck.
Transmission
1 Inhaling fungal spores from the environment.
Symptoms
2 Headache, fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures.
Treatment
3 Anti-fungal medications like fluconazole and amphotericin B.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis, commonly known as thrush, is a fungal infection caused by *Candida albicans*. It can affect the mouth, throat, vagina,
and skin.
Type Description
1 Prophylaxis
Prophylactic medications, such as TMP-SMX and fluconazole,
can help prevent certain opportunistic infections.
2 Immune Reconstitution
Effective antiretroviral therapy can help restore immune
function, reducing the risk of opportunistic infections.
3 Adherence to Care
Regular monitoring, adherence to medications, and lifestyle
modifications are crucial for long-term management of HIV
and prevention of opportunistic infections.
Thank You
For your time and interest in this presentation
by AYUSH DWIVEDI