Languages:

HIV/AIDS

Definition:

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, a virus that infects cells of the human immune system and destroys or impairs their function. Infection with this virus results in the progressive depletion of the immune system, leading to immune deficiency.

Immunodeficient people are much more vulnerable to a wide range of infections, most of which are very rare among people without immune deficiency.

AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and describes the collection of symptoms and infections associated with acquired deficiency of the immune system. Infection with HIV has been established as the underlying cause of AIDS.

Source: UNAIDS Fast facts about AIDS  

More:
Stylized rendering of a cross-section of the AIDS virus Stylized rendering of a cross-section of the AIDS virus

Source: Wikimedia/ University of California AIDS virus 

Related words:

Cell - Immune system - Virus

To read about this term in context:

GreenFacts Summary on AIDS status & challenges of the epidemic

GreenFacts Summary on Drug-resistant Tuberculosis

Translation(s):

Deutsch: HIV/AIDS
Español: VIH/SIDA
Français: VIH/SIDA
Nederlands: HIV/AIDS

Related publications:
FacebookTwitterEmail
  • ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ
  • Themes covered
    Publications A-Z
    Leaflets

    Get involved!

    This summary is free and ad-free, as is all of our content. You can help us remain free and independant as well as to develop new ways to communicate science by becoming a Patron!

    PatreonBECOME A PATRON!