What it means
A combined term for the whole course of HIV infection. HIV attacks CD4 T cells, a key part of the immune systemih-MYOON SIS-tumThe body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.Full entry . Without treatment it slowly weakens the body's defenses until AIDS develops, when the CD4 count falls below 200 cells/mm³ or certain opportunistic infections or cancers appear. With daily antiretroviral therapy, most people with HIV live long lives and do not reach AIDS.
For the nurse
Use standard precautions with every client. Support taking every dose of antiretroviral therapy, teach safer sex and that an undetectable viral load means HIV is not passed on sexually, and keep the diagnosis confidential.
Related terms
sexually transmitted infection
An infection passed from one person to another mainly through sexual contact.
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
immunodeficiency
A state in which the immune system is weaker than normal and cannot fight infection well.
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus: a virus that infects and destroys immune cells called CD4 T cells.
AIDS
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome: the most advanced stage of HIV infection, when the immune system is badly damaged.