Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026
23:56
Comprehensive & Cost Effective Laboratory Monitoring of HIV/AIDS: an African Role Model
Published on: October 31, 2010
Palliative care in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS): problems and practicalities
1Central Sydney Area Palliative Care Service, Australia.
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Palliative care is crucial for the growing number of patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in Asia. This paper addresses the unique challenges and practicalities of providing end-of-life care for advanced AIDS patients, focusing on symptom management and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Palliative Care Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Over 1.5 million human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are estimated in South and South East Asia.
- A significant increase in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) cases is projected, posing a challenge for regional health services.
Observation:
- Palliative care for AIDS patients presents unique complexities beyond traditional end-of-life care.
- Effective management of pain, symptoms, psychosocial issues, and terminal care is essential for improving quality of life.
Findings:
- The paper details practical considerations for palliative care physicians managing adult patients with advanced AIDS.
- Clinical decision-making, symptom control, psychosocial support, and terminal care are key areas discussed.
Implications:
- This work provides a framework for addressing the growing need for specialized palliative care in regions heavily impacted by HIV/AIDS.
- Understanding and implementing these strategies can improve care delivery and patient outcomes for advanced AIDS cases.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Retrovirus Life Cycles
Retroviruses have a single-stranded RNA genome that undergoes a special form of replication. Once the retrovirus has entered the host cell, an enzyme called reverse transcriptase synthesizes double-stranded DNA from the retroviral RNA genome. This DNA copy of the genome is then integrated into the host’s genome inside the nucleus via an enzyme called integrase. Consequently, the retroviral genome is transcribed into RNA whenever the host’s genome is transcribed, allowing the retrovirus to...
01:25Continuing Care
Continuing care describes the variety of health, personal, and social services provided over a prolonged period. The need for continuing care is increasing because people are living longer. Many people do not have families or others to care for them. Continuing care is mainly for patients who are disabled, functionally dependent, or suffering from a terminal disease. It is available within institutional settings or in homes. Examples include nursing centers or facilities, assisted living,...
01:25Immunodeficiency Diseases
Immunodeficiency disorders are conditions in which the immune system's ability to fight infectious disease and cancer is compromised or entirely absent. The immune system comprises a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from potentially harmful invaders. When this system is deficient or not functioning properly, it leaves the body susceptible to infections, diseases, or other complications.
There are three main causes of immunodeficiency disorders...
There are three main causes of immunodeficiency disorders...
01:26Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases transmitted primarily through unsafe sexual interactions. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause them and can result in severe health complications if untreated.ChlamydiaThe bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is responsible for the disease Chlamydia, the most common STI in the United States. This peculiar pathogen requires human cells to reproduce, residing intracellularly. The initial infection often goes unnoticed because it typically does not...
01:29Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Tuberculosis, often called TB, is a contagious illness primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mainly affects the lung parenchyma but can also impact other body parts.
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
01:27Cryptococcal Meningitis
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening opportunistic infection predominantly associated with HIV/AIDS, accounting for over 100,000 deaths annually worldwide. However, it also affects individuals with other forms of immunosuppression, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, organ transplant recipients, patients with innate immunodeficiencies, and individuals with hematological disorders. The infection is caused mainly by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii,...