patient with HIV is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of dehydration.The patient complains of chronic diarrhea.The nurse notes a 15-pound weight loss over a 4-week period.The most likely explanation for the patient's condition is:

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chronic diarrhea and significant weight loss may be symptoms of AIDS enteropathy, which is a common complication of HIV infection. This condition can result in malabsorption of nutrients and electrolytes, leading to dehydration. Thrush, herpes simplex virus, and HIV-lipodystrophy syndrome typically do not present with these symptoms. Chronic diarrhea and significant weight loss in a patient with HIV suggest AIDS enteropathy, which is a condition caused by HIV infection that affects the gastrointestinal system. This condition can lead to malabsorption and chronic diarrhea, which can result in significant weight loss. Thrush and herpes simplex virus are opportunistic infections commonly seen in patients with HIV, but they are not likely to be the cause of chronic diarrhea and weight loss in this case. HIV-lipodystrophy syndrome is a condition where patients with HIV experience changes in the distribution of body fat, but it is also unlikely to be the cause of chronic diarrhea and weight loss in this case.

Patient with HIV Is Admitted to the Hospital with a Diagnosis