Acute HIV infection

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Kaposi's sarcoma - lesion on the foot Primary HIV infection Kaposi's sarcoma - perianal Immune system structures

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Acute HIV infection

Note: At the time of diagnosis with HIV, many people have not experienced any symptoms.

Any of the following symptoms may occur:

• fever
• headache
• fatigue
• malaise
• decreased appetite
• swollen lymph glands
• muscular stiffness or aching
• generalized rash, usually flat to slightly raised (maculopapular) and red
• sore throat
• mouth and esophageal ulcers

• An HIV ELISA/Western blot is usually negative or indeterminate during the acute infection and will become positive over the next three months.
• An HIV RNA viral load is positive in patients with acute HIV infection.
• A CD4 count may show suppression of the immune system. The CD4 count usually improves 1 to 2 months following acute infection.
• A blood differential may show abnormalities.
• P24 antigen blood test is often positive

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