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Opportunistic Infections

Opportunistic infections occur in people whose immune systems have been weakened by a disease, such as AIDS. An opportunistic infection may cause serious, even life-threatening, illness.

Opportunistic infections that are common in people who have AIDS include Pneumocystis pneumonia, tuberculosis, and toxoplasmosis. Treatment for opportunistic infections depends on the type of infection and the original disease.

Last Revised: April 5, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Peter Shalit, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine

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