Aids: Assessment, Prevention and Treatment

Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes a spectrum of conditions called as HIV/AIDS or human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immune deficiency syndrome. It is primarily caused by unprotected sex, hypodermic needles, contaminated blood transfusions, mother to child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. HIV/AIDS is diagnosed on the basis of laboratory testing and staged based on the presence of certain signs or symptoms. People infected with HIV usually develop specific antibodies within the first three to twelve weeks after the initial infection. The diagnosis is therefore done by PCR testing for HIV RNA or DNA, or by measuring p24 antigen or HIV-RNA. There is no definitive cure for the disease but it can be managed by highly active antiretroviral therapy that slows the progression of the disease and leads to a near-normal life expectancy. Disease in a newborn can be prevented by the application of mother and child antiretroviral medication. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the assessment, prevention and treatment of AIDS. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to HIV/AIDS. It includes contributions of experts and scientists, which will provide innovative insights into this disease.