What organs does HIV affect?
The organs that HIV affects can be grouped into two categories, depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic.
Acute HIV infection
During the acute phase, HIV primarily affects the following organs:
1) Lymph nodes
2) Spleen
3) Liver
4) Bone marrow
5) Gastrointestinal tract
6) Skin
Chronic HIV infection (AIDS)
In the chronic phase, HIV can affect various organs and systems in the body, including:
1) Immune system: HIV primarily attacks and destroys CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for the immune system's ability to fight off infections. As the infection progresses and the number of CD4+ T cells decreases, the immune system becomes severely compromised, making the individual vulnerable to various opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
2) Brain and the nervous system: HIV can enter the brain and affect the central nervous system (CNS). This can lead to a range of neurological conditions, including HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), a spectrum of cognitive impairments that can range from mild to severe. HIV can also cause encephalitis, meningitis, and other infections of the CNS.
3) Heart: HIV infection can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and congestive heart failure.
4) Kidneys: HIV infection can lead to kidney disease and kidney failure.
5) Liver: HIV infection can cause chronic liver inflammation (hepatitis) and increase the risk of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.
6) Lungs: HIV infection can increase the risk of developing certain lung infections, such as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) and tuberculosis.
7) Eyes: HIV can cause eye conditions such as cytomegalovirus retinitis and HIV retinopathy, which can lead to vision impairment.
8) Gastrointestinal tract: HIV infection can affect the digestive system, causing conditions such as oral candidiasis, esophageal thrush, and chronic diarrhea.
9) Musculoskeletal system: HIV can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and joint pain.
10) Skin: HIV infection can manifest in various skin conditions such as rashes, itching, and sores.