Return to Search
EN
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is an advanced stage of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. When HIV enters the body, it targets and destroys CD4 T cells, which are crucial components of the immune system. These cells play a critical role in the body's defense against infections and diseases. A decrease in the number of CD4 T cells gradually weakens the immune system.
HIV infection can be asymptomatic for years or manifest with only mild symptoms before progressing to the AIDS stage. An AIDS diagnosis is typically made when the CD4 T cell count drops below 200/mm³ or when serious AIDS-defining complications, such as opportunistic infections or specific cancers, develop.
While there is no definitive cure for HIV infection, the replication of the virus can be effectively controlled with available antiviral medications. This treatment significantly minimizes the damage the virus inflicts on the immune system, largely preventing the progression of the infection to AIDS and enabling patients to live long, healthy lives.
What causes HIV/AIDS?
HIV infection can be asymptomatic for years or manifest with only mild symptoms before progressing to the AIDS stage. An AIDS diagnosis is typically made when the CD4 T cell count drops below 200/mm³ or when serious AIDS-defining complications, such as opportunistic infections or specific cancers, develop.
While there is no definitive cure for HIV infection, the replication of the virus can be effectively controlled with available antiviral medications. This treatment significantly minimizes the damage the virus inflicts on the immune system, largely preventing the progression of the infection to AIDS and enabling patients to live long, healthy lives.