Question

Antiretroviral therapy is to be given in HIV infected patients irrespective of presence of symptoms if CD4 count is less than?

• A. 100
• B. 150
• C. 200
• D. 350

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In the context of HIV treatment, antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for managing the condition effectively. The decision to initiate ART is typically based on several factors, including the CD4 count, which is an indicator of immune system health. Patients with a lower CD4 count are at a higher risk of complications and opportunistic infections. Therefore, it is standard practice to start ART regardless of the presence of symptoms when the CD4 count falls below a particular threshold to prevent disease progression. In the options provided:

• 100
• 150
• 200
• 350

The recommended CD4 count threshold for starting ART, irrespective of symptoms, is less than 200 cells/mm³. This guideline is based on clinical evidence that patients with a CD4 count below 200 are more vulnerable to life-threatening conditions, and starting ART can significantly improve health outcomes.

Correct Answer: 200