What are common complications with AIDS?

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). As HIV progressively weakens the immune system, it increases the risk of developing various complications and infections. Some common complications associated with AIDS include:

1. Opportunistic Infections:

Opportunistic infections (OIs) are infections caused by organisms that usually do not cause illness in individuals with a healthy immune system. However, in people with weakened immunity due to AIDS, these infections can become severe and even life-threatening. Common OIs include:

- Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP)

- Cryptosporidiosis

- Toxoplasmosis

- Cryptococcosis

- Candidiasis

- Kaposi's sarcoma

- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection

2. HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND):

HAND refers to a group of conditions that affect the nervous system due to HIV infection. It can cause a range of cognitive impairments, including:

- Difficulty with memory, concentration, and decision-making

- Reduced processing speed

- Motor coordination problems

- Behavioral changes

3. HIV-Associated Nephropathy:

HIV-associated nephropathy is a kidney disease caused by HIV. It can damage the kidneys and lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

4. Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC):

MAC is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium avium complex. It can cause lung infections, disseminated disease, and gastrointestinal symptoms in people with AIDS.

5. Wasting Syndrome:

Wasting syndrome, also known as HIV-associated weight loss, is a severe condition characterized by significant weight loss, muscle depletion, and weakness. It can result from malnutrition, malabsorption, hormonal imbalances, and increased metabolic demands due to fever and infections.

6. Malignancies:

People with AIDS are at an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, including:

- Kaposi's sarcoma

- Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

- Cervical cancer

- Anal cancer

- Liver cancer

7. Neurological Complications:

Besides HAND, HIV can also cause other neurological complications, such as:

- Cryptococcal meningitis

- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)

- HIV encephalitis

It's important for individuals with HIV to receive regular medical care, including monitoring for complications and early intervention when symptoms arise. Effective HIV treatment, known as antiretroviral therapy (ART), can help suppress the virus, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall health and well-being in people living with HIV.