Good morning, I'd like to find out information regarding starting treatment right away once it's been discovered HIV infection has occured. I am told there are several thoughts on this topic and many studies are under way in regards to when is the right time to start treatment.

My question is specific to finding the virus very early, during sero conversion, within two months or so of being infected. Is it true, or is the theory unfolding in such a way that starting meds has the ability to eradicate the disease in accute patients who choose the antiretroviral therapy right away? Is it really possible to eradicate the disease out of the body? My understanding is that there is a chance in 7.7 years of continued therapy that the disease appears to be able to be eradicated. Does this apply to only certain people? Are there certain instances when this is possible?

Thank you for any insight you may have regarding this topic of eradicating the disease. The news sounds very hopeful and Im wanting to find out more if possible.

Thank you :-)

Thank you for your post.

Unfortunately, at this time there is little evidence that HIV can be eradicated regardless of when treatment is started. There continues to be considerable research underway to assess the potential benefits associated with treatment during primary infection and strategies for viral eradication.

The data on treatment during primary infection remains mixed and most experts recommend discussing the pros and cons with an expert provider and making as informed a decision as possible. For now there are many theoretical benefits of early treatment but little evidence that it translates into improved outcomes. The good news is that most people are not treated during primary infection and do very well with currently available therapeutics.

With regards to eradication, only time will tell but with currently available agents it seems unlikely. Novel strategies will be needed and are being explored. Perhaps the next best thing to eradication would be to have medications that allow a person to completely control their infection with minimal side effects. A goal which is achievable for many people.

Best, Eric