A 30-year-old man is diagnosed with HIV infection. His CD4 count is 420 cells/mm³ and viral load is 80,000 copies/mL. He is asymptomatic. What is the ...

Question

A 30-year-old man is diagnosed with HIV infection. His CD4 count is 420 cells/mm³ and viral load is 80,000 copies/mL. He is asymptomatic. What is the most appropriate timing for starting antiretroviral therapy?

Accepted Answer

Start antiretroviral therapy immediately regardless of CD4 count

Answer

Wait until CD4 count falls below 200 cells/mm³

Answer

Only treat if he develops an AIDS-defining illness

Answer

Wait until viral load exceeds 500,000 copies/mL

Answer

Delay treatment for at least 12 months to assess disease course

au-amc MCQ (SBA): HIV treatment initiation

A 30-year-old man is diagnosed with HIV infection. His CD4 count is 420 cells/mm³ and viral load is 80,000 copies/mL. He is asymptomatic. What is the most appropriate timing for starting antiretroviral therapy?