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AIDS-Defining HSV Duration — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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EasyHIV MedicineAIDS-Defining HSV DurationSCE Infectious Diseases

A 30-year-old woman with HIV develops extensive perianal Herpes simplex ulceration that has been present for >1 month. What clinical significance does this duration have?

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Correct answer: E — HSV mucocutaneous ulceration persisting >1 month in an HIV-positive patient is an AIDS-defining condition — regardless of CD4 count

The CDC/WHO definition of AIDS includes HSV mucocutaneous ulceration lasting >1 month (or HSV bronchitis, pneumonitis, or oesophagitis at any duration) as an AIDS-defining illness. This applies regardless of CD4 count. Other AIDS-defining conditions include: oesophageal candidiasis, PJP, CMV disease (non-hepatic/splenic/nodal), KS, PCNSL, TB, and many OIs. Recognition of AIDS-defining conditions prompts: ART initiation (if not already on), OI prophylaxis assessment, and staging.

Reference: BHIVA 2022 – OI guidelines; CDC 2014 – AIDS-defining conditions; WHO 2021