HIV/AIDS 101....
Normal T-cells, which are also called CD4 cells range from about 550-1500. Based
on the CDC (Center for Disease Control) definition, technically you have AIDS
if you're HIV+ and your T-cells go below 200. You may feel fine but you still
have AIDS.
AIDS
treatment
The
most important step to proper AIDS treatment is seeing an HIV/AIDS
specialist Dr.
Sandler can easily prescribe cutting edge medications and AIDS treatments that
clinics and HMOs cannot or will not prescribe. These include but are not limited
to: Anal PAP smears for anyone who has engaged in unprotected anal intercourse;
bone density tests because HIV+ people are prone to osteoporosis; human growth
hormone for wasting syndrome; intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIG) for a specific
type of neuropathy and low platelets (cells that clot the blood); and evaluation
for Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the hips (destruction of the hip joints).
Dr. Sandler has the flexibility to refer patients to other specialists when necessary. This is an advantage of a private physician vs. an HMO. She also has access to new AIDS treatments by being part of AIDS Research Alliance as well as through her many contacts with other HIV organizations in Los Angeles, California.
| 
