Anergy, AIDS and tuberculosis.
Human immunodeficiency virus causes an immunological 'state of anergy'. This state is due to a defective function of antigen-presenting cells, a depletion of CD4+ helper cells, a reduction in the production of soluble factors required for signal transduction, and a decrease in cytotoxic cell activation. The human immunodeficiency virus epidemic has resulted in a global resurgence of tuberculosis. Tuberculin skin testing is negative in 58% of the patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome who develop tuberculosis. The mechanism leading to a state of anergy and the mechanism leading to dissemination of dormant tuberculosis appear to be identical.
Hegde
H R
HR
Department of Paediatrics, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
D017088:AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D006968:Hypersensitivity, Delayed; D007108:Immune Tolerance; D007111:Immunity, Cellular; D008954:Models, Biological; D009169:Mycobacterium tuberculosis / Q000276:immunology; D012867:Skin / Q000276:immunology; D014397:Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology*