Acute retroviral syndrome


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Acute retroviral syndrome


Acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) is the first stage of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Symptoms of acute retroviral syndrome are similar to the flu (such as headache, nausea, diarrhea, and body aches) and disappear on their own within weeks.

Even though symptoms of acute retroviral syndrome may disappear, a person is still infected with HIV. Although there currently is no cure for HIV infection, a combination of medications called highly active antiretroviral therapy, or HAART, helps prolong life in many people.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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