In the case of HIV infection by sexual transmission, a key step in the establishment of disseminated HIV infection is the replication of the virus in regional lymph nodes draining the mucosal site of initial virus entry. The ability of the virus to spread from the mucosa to the regional lymph node is made possible by:
A) The high viral titers generated by the initial replication in the mucosal tissue
B) The virus' ability to infect migratory cells that carry it from the mucosa to the lymph node
C) The ability of infected CD4 T cells from the transmitting individual to proliferate and spread in the recipient's GALT
D) The extremely high titers of HIV required for transmission from one individual to the next
E) The resistance of virus in the mucosal tissue to elimination by antiretroviral drugs

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The virus can spread from the mucosa to the regional lymph node because it can infect migratory cells that carry it to the lymph node. These cells, called dendritic cells, are present in the mucosa and can pick up the virus and transport it to the lymph nodes, where it can infect CD4 T cells and establish disseminated infection.

In the Case of HIV Infection by Sexual Transmission, a Key