Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted disease that does not have a cure, though treatment can increase a person's life span. The infection impairs the patient's immune system, resulting in flu-like symptoms and rashes.
Early Symptoms
Some patients may not have symptoms at the onset of infection, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The Mayo Clinic adds that if patients have early symptoms, they usually resemble symptoms of the flu; these include swollen lymph glands, a sore throat, headaches and fevers.
Rash
Another symptom of early HIV is a rash, such as seborrheic dermatitis. The NIH lists skin lesions, white or yellowish skin scales, and mild redness as symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
Transmission
The NIH notes that even if the patient does not have any symptoms, the virus can still be transmitted to other people.
Symptoms Time Frame
The Mayo Clinic states that the patient can be symptom free for as long as 8 or 9 years; if the patient experiences HIV-related flu-like symptoms, they can appear as early as 2 to 4 weeks after the contraction of the virus.
Diagnosis
The NIH warns that, when a patient with early HIV is tested with the HIV ELISA or Western blot test, the antibodies may not be detected. At-risk persons should be tested every 3 months.
