HIV Infection - Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Key Clinical Points HIV Infection - Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Despite extensive knowledge about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the number of cases of incident HIV infection decreased by only 7% between 2014 and 2018. One in seven persons with HIV infection in the United States is unaware of the infection, and transmission from these persons accounts for at least a third of new infections annually. Clinicians should test for HIV routinely in their practices, with repeat HIV testing in persons who inject drugs, have multiple sexual partners, exchange sex for money or drugs, or have incident sexually transmitted infections. Persons with a new diagnosis of HIV infection should be promptly referred to a clinical setting where a full HIV assessment can be performed and antiretroviral therapy can be initiated rapidly. Long-term retention in care and maintenance of successful antiretroviral therapy allow persons with HIV infection to have a near-normal life span and virtually eliminate transmission of HIV to others. HIV Infection - Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Universal screening for HIV infection is recommended, with repeat testing in persons at high risk. Infected persons should be promptly referred for a comprehensive assessment, including screening for associated infections and attention to social factors that may hinder adherence to treatment, and antiretroviral therapy should be initiated.

Automated summary

Despite extensive knowledge about HIV, incident cases have only decreased slightly in recent years. Universal screening, prompt referral for assessment, and initiation of antiretroviral therapy are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing transmission rates.