CD4+ T-lymphocytopenia without HIV infection - no lights, no camera, just facts
Article Abstract:
Idiopathic CD4+ T-lymphocytopenia is a recently described rare disorder that is not caused by HIV or human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) and does not appear to be caused by another transmissible agent. CD4+ lymphocytopenia is the depletion of certain white blood cells and is seen in HIV infection. Among patients who have CD4+ lymphocytopenia without HIV infection, less than half have known risk factors for HIV infection. Furthermore, HIV infection is characterized by the progressive depletion of CD4 T-cells, but in patients with idiopathic CD4+ T-lymphocytopenia, CD4+ T-cell counts, although low, usually remain stable. All known sex partners and family members of affected patients have been healthy and HIV-negative with normal CD4+ T-cell counts. Early reports of CD4+ T-lymphocytopenia without HIV infection drew much media attention and raised fears of another human retrovirus like HIV or HTLV, but research conducted so far suggests there is no common or infectious cause for this syndrome.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1993
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Transmission of multidrug-resistant human immunodeficiency virus - the wake-up call
Article Abstract:
The case of a man who contracted HIV infection that was resistant to all known AIDS drugs indicates that the treatment of the disease is still not optimal. The virus usually becomes resistant to a drug because the patient is not compliant with treatment. However, compliance is difficult when the patient must take 10 to 20 pills a day and many have side effects. Newer drugs are needed that have fewer side effects and longer action. This case also illustrates that prevention efforts are still paramount, since transmission occurred via an unsafe sex practice.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1998
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