Question:

Hi. Ive been positive for just over 2 years. My CD4 was last measured four months ago at 600 but since then I have developed multiple and recurrent absesses on my legs, back and shoulders. I also contracted MRSA in hospital. Do these repeated absesses (all of which have had surgery) and the MRSA mean that my CD4 will have dropped dramatically? Is it likely that with these symptoms I will need to start therapy? I would really appreciate your comments as I have been tested for Diabetes and everythigng else and HIV now seems the only reason. Thanks.

Answer provided by:

Peter Shalit, M.D.
Internal Medicine

MRSA can be a very aggressive infection, as you are learning. It is possible that the problem is just that you have encountered a particularly evil, persistent strain of MRSA which is causing these abscesses. Your CD4 need not have dropped for this to happen. You may need a prolonged course of antibiotic (or two antibiotics concurrently) to try to get rid of this infection "for good" - and even so, it may come back in the future.

But in addition, it may be that your HIV situation is contributing to the problem. Whether your CD4's have dropped, or not, if the MRSA continues to plague you, it might be worth going on to HIV therapy to see if that helps strengthen your immune system and reduce the incidence of these abscesses. Some folks with HIV have recurrent infections even with a relatively high CD4, and they can be helped by having their HIV treated.

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, Elton John AIDS Foundation, John M. Lloyd Foundation, Roche and Trimeris, the National Library of Medicine, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 2005. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.