Infectious disease, immune disorders, and hematological disorders | Other system

HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, specifically CD4+ T-cells, leading to immunosuppression
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the advanced stage of HIV, characterized by severe immune system compromise and opportunistic infections

Exercise considerations
- Moderate aerobic and resistance exercise is beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and function.
- Avoid high-intensity exercise in patients with advanced disease.
- Monitor for excessive fatigue and autonomic dysfunction (HR, BP).
Neuropathy management
- Balance training and fall prevention strategies.
- Pain management techniques (TENS, massage, stretching).
Infection control
- Standard precautions (gloves, hand hygiene) when treating open wounds.
- Avoid over-fatiguing the patient to reduce susceptibility to infections.

Caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacteria found on the skin and mucous membranes.
Can cause localized infections (boils, cellulitis) or systemic infections (sepsis, pneumonia, osteomyelitis)
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a drug-resistant strain

Infection control
- Use contact precautions (gloves, gowns) when treating open wounds.
- Disinfect equipment properly.
Osteomyelitis management
- Avoid weight-bearing on the affected limb until cleared by the physician.
- Implement gradual mobility training.
Post-infection recovery
- Monitor for persistent fatigue and weakness post-sepsis.
- Implement strength training with caution in recovering patients.

Caused by Streptococcus bacteria. Common types include:
- Group A Streptococcus (GAS): Causes strep throat, rheumatic fever, necrotizing fasciitis
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS): Can cause neonatal infections and sepsis

Strep throat: Sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes
Scarlet fever: Red rash, high fever, sore throat
Rheumatic fever: Post-strep autoimmune response affecting joints, heart, skin, CNS
Necrotizing fasciitis: Rapidly spreading soft tissue infection

Rheumatic fever development
- Can cause carditis → monitor for fatigue, dyspnea during exercise.
- Avoid overexertion due to potential cardiac involvement.
Necrotizing fasciitis development
- Requires surgical debridement → PT for wound care and functional recovery.
Post-infection weakness
- Strengthening and endurance training for patients recovering from severe strep infections.

Condition characterized by low red blood cell (RBC) count or hemoglobin, leading to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues
Causes include iron deficiency, chronic disease, or blood loss

Exercise considerations
- Avoid high-intensity exercise due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity.
- Monitor vital signs to prevent dizziness or syncope.
Orthostatic hypotension
- Encourage slow positional changes
- Provide external support of abdominal binder or compression stockings
Address underlying causes
- Work with a healthcare team if anemia is due to chronic disease (e.g., kidney disease, GI disorders).

Genetic blood disorder causing abnormally shaped RBCs, leading to vaso-occlusion and reduced oxygen delivery
Common in individuals of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian descent

Avoid overexertion
- High-intensity exercise can trigger a sickle cell crisis.
- Hydration is critical to prevent red blood cell sickling.
Pain management
- Use gentle ROM exercises, warm compresses during pain episodes.
- TENS and relaxation techniques can help with pain relief.
Monitor for stroke signs
- Sudden weakness, facial droop, speech difficulty → medical emergency.
Cold intolerance
- Avoid cold environments, as cold can trigger vasoconstriction and pain crises.