Handbook of HIV/AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) refer to a set of conditions in humans caused due to infection with HIV. The initial infection with the virus causes little or no symptoms, followed by a brief period of influenza-like illness. This period is succeeded by a long period with no symptoms. However, with the progression of the illness, a gradual shift in the immune response of the body emerges which is expressed with the incidence of common infections like tuberculosis, certain opportunistic infections and tumors which rarely affect people with a well-functioning immune system. HIV is contracted through unprotected sex, use of hypodermic needles, exposure to contaminated blood transfusions and mother to child HIV transmission during pregnancy, breast feeding and delivery. A patient may survive up to an average of 11 years without treatment. The disease can however be slowed down and patients can have a near-normal life expectancy, with antiretroviral therapies. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of HIV/AIDS. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing the understanding and management of this disease are examined in detail. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.