HIV Infection: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is a chronic viral disease that attacks the immune system, particularly CD4 cells, also known as T-lymphocytes. HIV can lead to severe immunodeficiency, known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), where the body becomes vulnerable to various opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Epidemiology

Since the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, approximately 60 million people have been infected, and more than half have died. In France, it is estimated that 30,000 to 40,000 women of childbearing age are HIV-positive.

Pathogenesis

HIV enters the body primarily through vaginal or anal mucous membranes, rapidly reaching target cells in the submucosa. It is then transported to the lymph nodes where it multiplies rapidly before spreading throughout the lymphatic system, notably within the gastrointestinal tract. The virus primarily targets CD4 lymphocytes, leading to a progressive decrease of these crucial immune defense cells, resulting in severe immunodeficiency.

Symptoms

The first symptoms of HIV infection often resemble those of the flu, with fever, sore throat, rashes, and swollen glands. Biologically, there may also be a decrease in the number of red, white blood cells and platelets. If the infection is not treated, the immune system gradually weakens, making the body more vulnerable to serious infections and certain cancers.

Complications

The main complications of HIV/AIDS are related to the immunodeficiency induced by the destruction of CD4 lymphocytes. This includes increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections (such as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and toxoplasmosis), as well as certain cancers (such as Kaposi's sarcoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma).

Treatment

The treatment of HIV infection is mainly based on antiretroviral therapy (ART), which involves a combination of drugs aimed at inhibiting viral replication. Although these treatments do not cure the infection, they help control viral load, maintain immune function, and prevent AIDS-related complications. Researchers are also exploring new strategies, such as blocking the virus's entry into host cells with innovative molecules.