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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Spots On Extremities, Diarrhea And Low CD4 Count

A friend has been diagnosed with HIV but already has pneumocystis pneumonia, 65lb. Wt loss, the spots on his extremities, on O2, diarrhea constantly, and a CD4 count of 16. He has just this week started on retrovirals. As a nurse I know the outcome but what should we expect next, and any idea of time before passing at the current state?
Thu, 21 Jan 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Based on the symptoms and signs mentioned, he may already be at the stage of AIDS.

At present, there are effective medications that can be used to suppress the virus and also as prophylaxis against diseases that would occur at his low CD4 count.

As you would know, it would be difficult to predict the exact response. Because the medication can be highly effective, it is possible that his CD4 count would improve and his symptoms.
If this does not occur, he may continue to decline but the time frame can vary from months to 1 to 2 years.

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Suggest Treatment For Spots On Extremities, Diarrhea And Low CD4 Count

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Based on the symptoms and signs mentioned, he may already be at the stage of AIDS. At present, there are effective medications that can be used to suppress the virus and also as prophylaxis against diseases that would occur at his low CD4 count. As you would know, it would be difficult to predict the exact response. Because the medication can be highly effective, it is possible that his CD4 count would improve and his symptoms. If this does not occur, he may continue to decline but the time frame can vary from months to 1 to 2 years. I hope this helps