Follow-Up
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This case was different from many of the other cases presented to the Paediatric Internet-based Discussion Group. Unlike most, this case generated more questions than answers. The purpose of the group discussion is not to add confusion; thus, Leon Levin, MD, the group moderator, followed up on this case. The following is a synopsis of the follow-up research conducted by Dr. Levin:
It is not unusual to see an undetectable viral load in an HIV-positive adult patient who is not receiving ART. However, as many participants have pointed out, it is highly unusual in a pediatric patient, especially a young one. In infants who acquire HIV perinatally, viral loads climb swiftly to very high levels within 1-2 months after birth and decline slowly over the next 5-6 years. It is extremely unusual to have a viral load of