Keywords

acute HIV infection, differential diagnosis, fever, infectious mononucleosis, lymphadenopathy, pharyngitis

Authors

1. Grimes, Richard M. PhD
2. Hardwicke, Robin L. PhD, APRN
3. Grimes, Deanna E. DrPH, RN
4. DeGarmo, D. Sean MSN, APRN

Abstract

Abstract: Patients presenting with fever, pharyngitis, and lymphadenopathy are likely to have mononucleosis; however, patients with acute HIV infection may present with similar symptoms. Acute HIV infection should be considered as a differential diagnosis if test results for mononucleosis are negative. This article describes when to order HIV testing and discusses the importance of early intervention for acute HIV infection.