AIDS
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It is unclear how stable low-level viral replication and CD4 cell numbers can be maintained under highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). This study was designed to analyse whether HIV-specific responses in stable partially controlled patients during antiretroviral therapy (ART) differ from those observed in complete HAART failure and whether they contribute to the control of viral load (VL). ⋯ Persistently low viral replication (<10,000 copies/ml) during ART stimulates high frequencies of HIV-specific CD4 and CD8 T cells compared to full virus suppression or complete ART failure. The association of high anti-HIV activity with large numbers of HIV-specific CD8 T cells contribute to the control of viral replication.
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To estimate the prevalence of, and identify factors associated with, HIV testing in Britain. ⋯ HIV testing is relatively common in Britain; however, it remains largely associated with population-based blood donation and antenatal screening programmes. In contrast, VCT remains highly associated with high-risk (sexual or drug-injecting) behaviours or population sub-groups at high risk. Strategies to reduce undiagnosed prevalent HIV infection will require further normalization and wider uptake of HIV testing.