Which laboratory parameter should be monitored closely in a patient with AIDS?

The Nightingale Pathophysiology Test is your destination for mastering complex medical concepts. Utilize multiple choice questions and flashcards, all with detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and boost your confidence. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which laboratory parameter should be monitored closely in a patient with AIDS?

Explanation:
In AIDS, the immune status is best tracked by the CD4+ T lymphocyte count, because HIV mainly destroys these cells that coordinate the immune response. As CD4+ T cells decline, the risk of opportunistic infections rises and the need for antiretroviral therapy or prophylaxis becomes greater. Monitoring lymphocyte counts, especially the CD4+ T cell subset, provides the clearest picture of immune function and disease progression. While white blood cell count, hematocrit, and platelets can be affected by illness or treatment, they don’t reflect the core immune competence against HIV as directly. Keeping an eye on CD4+ counts helps guide when to start prophylaxis for infections and evaluate treatment effectiveness.

In AIDS, the immune status is best tracked by the CD4+ T lymphocyte count, because HIV mainly destroys these cells that coordinate the immune response. As CD4+ T cells decline, the risk of opportunistic infections rises and the need for antiretroviral therapy or prophylaxis becomes greater. Monitoring lymphocyte counts, especially the CD4+ T cell subset, provides the clearest picture of immune function and disease progression. While white blood cell count, hematocrit, and platelets can be affected by illness or treatment, they don’t reflect the core immune competence against HIV as directly. Keeping an eye on CD4+ counts helps guide when to start prophylaxis for infections and evaluate treatment effectiveness.

More practice questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy