Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
Definition
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It severely weakens the immune system, making the body susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- AIDS is diagnosed when a person's CD4 cell count drops below 200 cells/mm³ or they develop specific opportunistic infections.
- Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) is the primary treatment approach for AIDS, aiming to reduce viral load and improve immune function.
- Common opportunistic infections associated with AIDS include Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), tuberculosis, and Kaposi's sarcoma.
- Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U): Effective antiretroviral treatment can lower HIV to undetectable levels, preventing transmission of the virus.
- Adherence to antiretroviral therapy is crucial for managing AIDS and preventing drug resistance.
Review Questions
- What criteria are used to diagnose AIDS in an HIV-positive individual?
- How does Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) benefit patients with AIDS?
- Name three common opportunistic infections seen in patients with AIDS.
"Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Related terms
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): The virus that causes AIDS by attacking the immune system.
Opportunistic Infection: Infections that occur more frequently and are more severe in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Antiretrovirals: Drugs used to treat HIV infection by inhibiting various stages of the virus's lifecycle.
