HIV
Medical term · H
Abbreviation for human immunodeficiency virus, the virus that leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV damages immune cells so that they are no longer able to fight off other infections.
Related terms
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Acquired immunodeficiency syndromeUsually abbreviated as AIDS. This is the most advanced stage of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which can severely weaken the immune system. People with…
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Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)A viral infection which attacks the body’s immune system, making it hard to fight off other infections. HIV is passed through contact with body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluid…
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SyndromeA collection of different signs and symptoms that are all part of the same underlying medical condition.
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VirusA micro-organism which invades living cells in order to grow or reproduce. Viruses cause many infections, from the common cold, chickenpox and measles to HIV.