21st June 2024

A patient is assessed in the infectious diseases clinic before starting antiretroviral therapy

A patient is assessed in the infectious diseases clinic before starting antiretroviral therapy. They were diagnosed as being HIV positive as part of an STI screen at a local clinic. Their CD4+ count is 22 cells per mm³, and their baseline HIV viral load is 200,000 copies/mL. The patient is concerned about the risk of CMV retinitis and damage to their sight.  With respect to CMV retinal disease in HIV, which of the following is true?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.