[Verified Answer]: HIV Case Study Scenario & Questions John,…

HIV Case Study Scenario & Questions John, a 27-year-old male, was diagnosed with HIV five years ago but did not start antiretroviral therapy until two years ago. Unfortunately, his infection demonstrated resistance to those medications within the last year and he had to be prescribed different medications. In the past six months John has developed cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis and esophageal candidiasis. Diagnostic tests reveal his CD4 count is 187 cells/mm3 and that his HIV RNA (copies/ml) has tripled since his last test of viral load six months ago. 1. Describe the process by which HIV infects its host and impairs the host’s immune system. 2. John says that for the first three years after his diagnosis he didn’t experience any symptoms and that he didn’t think he was infectious during that time. Is that true? Explain. 3. What is the significance of John’s diagnoses of CMV retinitis and esophageal candidiasis? 4. Explain the contributing factors to the development of HIV drug resistance and how it complicates the prevention and treatment of HIV. 5. John’s sexual partner comes in for evaluation because he thinks he was exposed two weeks ago during sexual activity with John. His rapid oral antibody HIV test comes back negative and he states he’s relieved “to know for sure he doesn’t have HIV”. What knowledge would you base your response on? 6. If John’s sexual partner is in fact uninfected, what preventative strategies should be discussed with him? 7. A family member has volunteered to help care for John as his condition further deteriorates but is afraid of contracting HIV. She says she is planning to avoid hugging or kissing him and will use bleach wipes on all items that John touches in her house. Based on your knowledge of the chain of infection for HIV, how would you address her fears of contracting HIV?