Assignment task:
Wilbur presented to the office with symptoms of Kaposi Sarcoma and Oral candidiasis consistent with an untreated HIV/AIDS diagnosis. Kaposi sarcoma is caused by the human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8). It is typically contracted through saliva. While normal immune systems can combat the virus, immunocompromised patients such as those with HIV/AIDS are unable to suppress the virus, leading to red, purple, or brown lesions on the skin in addition to possible swelling of the legs and enlarged lymph nodes (Kaposi Sarcoma - Symptoms and Causes, n.d.). Oral candidiasis is a common opportunistic infection among patients with HIV/AIDS. Immuno-deficient patients are unable to properly regulate the amount of yeast growing in their body which may lead to oral pharyngeal symptoms such as white or yellow bumps or patches within the mouth, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, mouth sores, bleeding, and dry mouth (Yetman, 2021).
In order to confirm the diagnosis for the conditions presented, if HIV is not confirmed, a HIV test should be ordered. In addition to an antibody/antigen test, a HIV-RNA viral load and CD4 test should be ordered as well. These conditions are more likely to manifest in patients with a CD4 count of less than 200, which is considered as AIDS defining. To confirm Kaposi sarcoma, a biopsy should be conducted on the lesions. Thrush can be diagnosed by examination.
After a confirmed positive HIV diagnosis, the patient should be started on anti-retroviral therapy (ARV) immediately. With effective treatment, the patient can be virally suppressed and have an increase in their CD4 within 4-6 weeks. ARVs will enhance the patient's immune system thus reducing the occurrence of opportunistic infections. Additional treatment should include surgical removal of kaposi sarcoma lesions, chemotherapy, or radiation. Treatment for thrush should include nystatin swish and swallow in addition to education about proper oral care. Need Assignment Help?
Kaposi sarcoma - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic.
Yetman, D. (2021, February 24). Oral thrush and HIV: what's the connection? Healthline.