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Acute HIV Syndrome

By , About.com Guide

Updated: October 04, 2007

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Definition:
Acute HIV Infection is the 4 to 7-week period of rapid viral replication immediately following exposure to HIV. An estimated 30 to 60 percent of individuals with HIV infection develop an acute viral syndrome after their initial exposure. Acute HIV infection occurs during the seroconversion stage of infection; that time after the initial infection when the body is unable to manufacture HIV antibodies fast enough to stop infection.

The symptoms include:

  • fever
  • malaise
  • lymphadenopathy
  • pharyngitis
  • headache
  • myalgia
  • rash

How to Recognize Acute HIV Syndrome

Also Known As:
Acute Viral Syndrome; Acute HIV Infection; Acute Seroconversion
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