HIV

Definition

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a retrovirus that attacks cells in the immune system, leading to progressive deterioration and potentially resulting in AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

Related terms

CD4 T-Cells: These are white blood cells that play crucial roles in our immune response by signaling other cells to perform their functions during an infection.

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): A treatment for HIV involving medications that prevent the virus from replicating, thus slowing down disease progression.

Opportunistic Infections: Infections caused by pathogens that take advantage of a weakened immune system, often seen in advanced stages of HIV infection.