Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) / Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

Synonyms

Human t-cell leukemia virus type III; Human t-cell lymphotrophic virus type III; Lymphadenopathy‐associated virus

Definition

HIV is a retrovirus that is the cause of AIDS. The retrovirus gradually weakens the immune system by attacking Helper T cells. Two types of HIV exist: HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-1 is common worldwide, while HIV-2 is only common in West Africa. HIV is spread from person to person through blood, breast milk or other bodily fluids. This may occur through blood transfusions, hypodermic needles, or sexual contact. Mothers who have HIV while they are pregnant may spread the infection to their unborn child. An individual who has the retrovirus in their blood is called “HIV-positive”. AIDS occurs when the HIV infection has severely damaged the immune system, a process that may take years. An HIV-positive person may or may not develop AIDS; however they can infect other people with the HIV virus.

Cross-References

HIV-Infection and AIDS