Effectiveness of Antiretroviral Therapy In HIV Positive Patients by Monitoring CD4+ T Lymphocytes Count

Remya K

Abstract: India stands third with respect to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) epidemic in the world. About 2.1 million people are estimated to be living with HIV in India. The natural history of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus is characterized by a progressive decline of T helper lymphocytes, cluster of differentiation 4 i. e., CD4+ lymphocytes. Measurement of CD4+ lymphocytes is essential for assessing disease course, clinical staging epidemiological studies, and decisions regarding prophylactic therapies against opportunistic infections. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has drastically improved the survival of patients who suffer from HIV/AIDS. ART?s primary goals are maximal and durable suppression of viral replication, restoration of immunologic function, reduction of HIV - related morbidity and mortality, improvement of quality of life, and prolonging survival.

Keywords: HIV, AIDS, CD4+Lymphocytes, Antiretroviral Therapy, Mortality