Nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV infection commonly leads to what outcome?

Study for the Mosby's Canadian Practical Nurse Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV infection commonly leads to what outcome?

Explanation:
Consistent ART suppresses HIV replication and helps keep the immune system functioning by keeping the viral load low and CD4 counts relatively stable. When adherence is poor, the virus can begin to replicate again, causing the viral load to rise and the CD4 count to fall. This weakened immune state increases the risk of opportunistic infections and other HIV-related illnesses, moving the person closer to AIDS. Inconsistent dosing can also lead to the virus developing drug resistance, making future treatment more difficult. Therefore, nonadherence commonly leads to progression to AIDS. Spontaneous remission or cure does not occur with current HIV therapy, and saying ART has no effect is inaccurate.

Consistent ART suppresses HIV replication and helps keep the immune system functioning by keeping the viral load low and CD4 counts relatively stable. When adherence is poor, the virus can begin to replicate again, causing the viral load to rise and the CD4 count to fall. This weakened immune state increases the risk of opportunistic infections and other HIV-related illnesses, moving the person closer to AIDS. Inconsistent dosing can also lead to the virus developing drug resistance, making future treatment more difficult. Therefore, nonadherence commonly leads to progression to AIDS. Spontaneous remission or cure does not occur with current HIV therapy, and saying ART has no effect is inaccurate.

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