CMV: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
At what CD4 count do people with HIV become at risk for CMV infections?
A. CD4 50 cells/microL
B. CD4 100 cells/microL
C. CD4 150 cells/microL
D. CD4 200 cells/microL
E. CD4 250 cells/microL
Answer and topic summary
The answer is A. CD4 50 cells/microL
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis and associated GI diseases are uncommon, but critical complications of AIDS. They typically occurs when the CD4 cell count is <50 cells/microL. Clinical symptoms include nausea, fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malaise. Diagnostic tests include endoscopy with biopsy and tissue CMV PCR. Endoscopy may reveal localized areas of friable, erythematous mucosa with submucosal hemorrhage and mucosal ulcerations. Treatment is ganciclovir or foscarnet for 3-6 weeks. Complications include hemorrhage, bowel perforation, and toxic megacolon.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Infectious Disease ⇒ ⇒
Also covered as part of the Internal Medicine PAEA Rotation EOR topic list
