AIDS and Nutrition

Abstract

In 1981 the Acqu'ıred Immunodefıciency Syndrome (AIDS) was identified in the United States. AIDS is caused by the HIV (Hıımaıı Immunodefıciency Virüs), which invades the genetic core of T4 lymphocyte cells. Destruction o f T lymphocyte function results in immııne defıciency and consequent vulnerability to life- threatening neoplasm and opportunistic infections. Often the complications o f the AIDS have a negative impact on nutritional statııs. Weight loss and protein depletıon are commoııly seen among the AIDS population. Although the relatioııship between disease progression and nutritional status has not been established, maintaining good nutritional status may support response to treatment of opportunistic infection and improve patient’s strength and comfort.