Question

Fill in the blanks ______ is an important opportunistic infection that causes retinitis in AIDS patients.

Short answer

Answer: Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Step-by-step solution

Identify the opportunistic infection

The infection that causes retinitis in AIDS patients is Cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Fill in the blank

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an important opportunistic infection that causes retinitis in AIDS patients.

Key concepts

Cytomegalovirus

Cytomegalovirus, commonly abbreviated as CMV, is a widespread virus that belongs to the herpes family. While it is very common, only some people with weakened immune systems, such as those with AIDS, show symptoms.
CMV is an opportunistic infection, meaning it takes advantage of a weakened immune system to cause disease. It spreads through body fluids, including blood, saliva, urine, semen, and breast milk.
Most people will carry the virus without any significant problems. But for those with compromised immune systems, CMV can be quite serious.

• It can lead to complications if not properly managed.
• Common sources of transmission include person-to-person contact or through organ transplants.

Understanding this virus and how it behaves is crucial in the context of immunocompromised individuals. This understanding helps in developing effective treatment plans to manage their health better.

Retinitis

Retinitis is an inflammation of the retina, the part of the eye responsible for receiving and processing light. If not addressed, it can result in retinal damage and even blindness.
In patients with weakened immune systems, such as those with AIDS, retinitis is often caused by infections like CMV. The CMV retinitis specifically can lead to the destruction of retinal cells, thus impairing vision.
Symptoms of retinitis may include floaters, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If the infection progresses, people may lose peripheral vision, which can eventually progress to complete blindness if untreated.

• Diagnosis typically involves an eye examination by an ophthalmologist.
• Treatment may include antiviral medications to control the virus.
• Early detection can prevent severe damage and preserve sight.

Retinitis represents a serious threat to vision, especially in those with compromised immune systems.

AIDS

AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is the most severe phase of HIV infection. It occurs when HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, heavily damages a person's immune system.
Someone with AIDS is at a heightened risk for opportunistic infections like CMV, because their immune system cannot defend against them effectively.
This condition was first identified in the early 1980s, and it has since become a major global health issue.

• HIV attacks the body's CD4 cells, which are essential for immune defense.
• As CD4 count falls, the risk for infections and certain cancers rises.

The treatment landscape for HIV/AIDS has improved significantly over the years. Modern antiretroviral therapies can suppress the virus, preventing it from progressing to AIDS, thereby reducing the risk of opportunistic infections and improving quality of life.