Consider HIV: testing for HIV and HIV indicator diseases

Abstract

Background: Since the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be considered a treatable condition. In Australia in 2010, 40% of people had their HIV diagnosed late, where late is defined as CD4 <350 cells/mm3 (CD4 normal range = 450-1 500 cells/mm3). This late diagnosis can significantly impact on prognosis. Objective: This article provides examples of late HIV diagnosis and an update of how and when to test for HIV in clinical practice. Discussion: While HIV is usually diagnosed in those with identifiable risk factors, awareness of indications to test and potential HIV indicator diseases can provide the general practitioner with a cue to offer testing to a patient. Early diagnosis of HIV offers benefits to the patient and the community.