Recent advances in therapeutic options for the treatment of HIV infection have led to prolonged survival and an emphasis on the long-term clinical management of HIV. HIV infection is now viewed as a chronic disease, most appropriately managed in an outpatient, longitudinal care setting . Thus, the initial clinical encounter with the seropositive patient serves as both a health assessment and the opportunity to begin a partnership between the clinician and the patient that may continue for many years.

It is of critical importance that both HIV specialists and generalists be familiar with the appropriate evaluation of the seropositive patient, since HIV care, especially during the early stages of the disease, is often delivered by primary care practitioners. This module outlines the current standards and recommendations for the care of patients within the spectrum of disease conditions associated with HIV infection.

This medical education offering will identify and discuss the treatment implications of specific issues in the initial history and physical examination related to the natural history of HIV. Appropriate laboratory studies, including the utilization of CD4+ cell count and viral load assays strategies for the staging of HIV infection immunization protocols follow-up care guidelines, including health promotion, prophylaxis of opportunistic infections, psychosocial concerns and patient compliance.

A post test program evaluation follow the completion of this offering.