After the discovery of human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) infection more than three decades ago, there has been a significant development in the laboratory diagnosis, treatment and management of patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Initially HIV-1 infection was implicated to cause various cancerous conditions (Kaposi’s sarcoma), and infectious diseases (tuberculosis, other bacterial, viral, parasitic and fungal infections). Studies have demonstrated that HIV-1 infection and the disease course is complex and that many HIV infected patients do not progress to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) even after 10-15 years (late/non progressors). Introduction of HAART has significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality in HIV-1 infected patients resulting in extended life on par with HIV non infected individuals. Late research has revealed that HIV-1-infected individuals are at greater risks of developing non infectious complications (liver disease, cardiovascular disease (CVD)) that may precipitate with the initiation of HAART. With the increased availability and affordability of HAART, the focus now is on developing effective strategies to monitor HIV -1 disease progression and treatment response.

human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), disease progression, treatment response