The entire spectrum of the natural history of the human immunodeficiency virus, from post infection through the clinical definition of AIDS.
Characterized by a gradual deterioration of immune function. During the course of infection, crucial immune cells called CD4+ T cells are disabled and killed, and their numbers progressively decline. CD4+ T cells play a crucial role in the immune response, signaling other cells in the immune system to perform their special functions. See also Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; CD4 (T4) or CD4+ Cells; Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1.
the broad spectrum of opportunistic infections and diseases that occur in an individual infected with the human immunodeficiency virus.
Gradual weakening of the immune system because of HIV infection.
After contracting HIV, a person undergoes acute HIV infection, a period that lasts 4 to 7 weeks. HIV disseminates throughout the body and the number of CD4 cells plummets. The body then evokes an immune response, resulting in a decrease in detectable viremia and a prolonged period of clinical latency that lasts about ten years on average. During clinical latency, the CD4 cell count steadily declines until it reaches a critical level, below which there is substantial risk of OIs. See Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1; Acute HIV Infection.
a viral infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus.
A term used to describe a variety of symptoms and signs found in people who are HIV positive. These may include recurrent fevers, unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, or fungus infection of the mouth and throat. Also described as symptomatic HIV infection (previously known as ARC). Most commonly used to describe AIDS.
During the initial infection with HIV, when the virus comes in contact with the mucosal surface and finds susceptible T cells, the first site at which there is truly massive production of the virus is lymphoid tissue. This leads to a burst of massive viremia, with wide dissemination of the virus to lymphoid organs. The resulting immune response to suppress the virus is only partially successful and some virus escape. Eventually, this results in high viral turnover that leads to destruction of the immune system. HIV disease is, therefore, characterized by a gradual deterioration of immune functions. During the course of infection, crucial immune cells, called CD4+ T cells, are disabled and killed, and their numbers progressively decline.