HIV/AIDS

HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, a retrovirus that attacks the immune system.

Retrovirus

A type of virus that uses reverse transcription to replicate its RNA into DNA.

CD4+ T cells

A type of immune cell that HIV targets for infection.

Capsid

The protein coat of a virus that encloses its genetic material.

Provirus

Viral DNA that integrates into the host genome.

Viremia

The presence of viruses in the bloodstream.

Opportunistic infections

Infections that occur more frequently and are more severe in individuals with weakened immune systems.

p24 antigen

A protein of HIV that can be detected in the bloodstream as an indicator of HIV infection.

Antigen-antibody test

A test that detects either antibodies to the virus or the virus itself, such as HIV p24.

Genotype resistance assays

Tests that identify mutations in the HIV genome associated with resistance to antiretroviral drugs.

Phenotype resistance assays

Tests that measure the ability of HIV to replicate in the presence of antiretroviral drugs.

Fourth-generation test

A combination test that detects both HIV antibodies and p24 antigen in the blood.

AIDS diagnosis criteria

AIDS is diagnosed when the absolute CD4+ T-cell count falls below 200 cells/mL.

Primary infection

The initial phase after HIV infection that may present with flu-like symptoms.

Clinical latency

A stage of HIV infection where there are no symptoms and viral activity is low.

CART

Combination Antiretroviral Therapy, a treatment for managing HIV.

Quantitative viral load assays

Tests that measure the amount of HIV RNA in the plasma.

Molecular methods for diagnosis in infants

Qualitative HIV-1 DNA PCR is preferred to diagnose HIV in infants under 18 months.