GED Science TestLife ScienceHard
A patient presents with symptoms including unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, and frequent opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis pneumonia and Kaposi's sarcoma. Blood tests reveal a severely reduced CD4+ T cell count. These findings are highly indicative of which condition?
- AAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
- BSystemic Lupus Erythematosus
- CType 1 Diabetes
- DMultiple Sclerosis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
The combination of unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, opportunistic infections (Pneumocystis pneumonia, Kaposi's sarcoma), and a severely reduced CD4+ T cell count are classic diagnostic criteria and symptoms for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the final stage of HIV infection.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease with widespread symptoms, but not specifically defined by these opportunistic infections or the severe CD4+ T cell depletion seen in AIDS.
- C. Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease affecting insulin production, with different symptoms and immune cell involvement.
- D. Multiple Sclerosis is a neurological autoimmune disorder affecting myelin, not typically presenting with these infections or immune cell counts.
AIDS Diagnosis
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, characterized by a severely compromised immune system, leading to a high susceptibility to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
- Caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
- Defined by a CD4+ T cell count below 200 cells/µL or presence of AIDS-defining conditions.
- Opportunistic infections (e.g., Pneumocystis pneumonia, Kaposi's sarcoma) are common.
- Results in profound immunodeficiency and increased mortality if untreated.
Memory trick: HIV attacks CD4s, AIDS brings opportunists and fatigue!