Asymptomatic HIV infection is a phase of chronic infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) during which there are no symptoms of HIV infection.
Alternative Names:
HIV infection - asymptomatic
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Asymptomatic HIV infection is a period of varying length in which the immune system slowly deteriorates without symptoms.
The length of this phase varies from person to person. It depends on how quickly the HIV virus is copying itself and the genetic differences that affect the way the immune system handles the virus.
Some people can go 10 years or longer without symptoms, while others may have symptoms and worsening immune function within a few years after the original infection.
Symptoms:
Asymptomatic HIV infection, by definition, does not have symptoms associated with HIV, such as:
Review Date: 11/1/2007
Reviewed By: Kenneth M. Wener, M.D., Department of Infectious Diseases, Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Infectious Diseases, Internal Medicine
