HIV infection: the most effective dietary supplements

Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a chronic viral disease that attacks the immune system, particularly CD4 cells, also called T lymphocytes. HIV can lead to severe immunodeficiency, known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), in which the body becomes vulnerable to various opportunistic infections and certain cancers​​.

Epidemiology

Since the start of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, about 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​​.

Etiopathogenesis

HIV enters the body mainly through vaginal or anal mucous membranes, quickly reaching target cells in the submucosa. It is then transported to the lymph nodes where it replicates rapidly before spreading throughout the lymphatic system, notably in the gastrointestinal tract​​. The virus primarily targets CD4 lymphocytes, causing a progressive decline of these cells that are crucial for immune defense, which leads to severe immunodeficiency​.

Symptoms

The early symptoms of HIV infection often resemble those of influenza, with fever, sore throat, rashes and swollen lymph nodes. Biologically, a decrease in the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets may also be observed. 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 caused 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 sarcoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma)​.

Treatment

Treatment of HIV infection is primarily based on antiretroviral therapy (ART), which consists of a combination of drugs aimed at inhibiting viral replication. Although these treatments do not cure the infection, they allow control of viral load, maintenance of immune function and prevention of AIDS-related complications​. Researchers are also exploring new strategies, such as blocking the entry of the virus into host cells with innovative molecules.