Question

In which stage of HIV infection does one usually show symptoms of AIDS:

• A. Within 15 days of sexual contact with an infected person
• B. When the infected retrovirus enters the host cell
• C. When HIV damages a large number of helper T-Lymphocytes
• D. When the viral DNA is produced by reverse transcriptase

Hint:

• HIV targets CD4 cells
• AIDS stage = Low CD4 count + opportunistic infections

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: HIV infection progresses through different stages, and symptoms of AIDS appear when the immune system becomes severely weakened.
• HIV primarily infects helper T-lymphocytes (CD4 cells).
• AIDS symptoms appear when there is a significant decline in CD4 cell count.

Step 1: Understanding each stage.

• Within 15 days of infection: Early phase, usually mild or no symptoms → Incorrect.
• Entry of retrovirus into host cell: Initial infection stage → Incorrect.
• Damage to helper T-lymphocytes: Leads to immune deficiency and opportunistic infections → Correct stage for AIDS symptoms.
• Viral DNA production: Early replication step → Incorrect.

Step 2: Selecting the correct stage.
AIDS symptoms appear when HIV has destroyed a large number of helper T-cells, weakening the immune system.