A 29-year-old man is newly diagnosed with HIV after presenting with oral candidiasis. CD4 count is 180 cells/uL, HIV viral load is 96,000 copies/mL,

Question

A 29-year-old man is newly diagnosed with HIV after presenting with oral candidiasis. CD4 count is 180 cells/uL, HIV viral load is 96,000 copies/mL, creatinine and ALT are normal, and genotype has been sent. He is clinically stable and motivated to start treatment. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Start antiretroviral therapy promptly while completing baseline assessment

Answer

Use Pneumocystis prophylaxis without antiretroviral therapy

Answer

Wait until CD4 count falls below 100 cells/uL

Answer

Start zidovudine monotherapy

Answer

Defer therapy until genotype results return in several months

HIV screening — RCPSC IM MCQ