What is the relationship between HIV and AIDS?

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Multiple Choice

What is the relationship between HIV and AIDS?

The main concept is that HIV infection leads to AIDS if it is not treated. HIV targets CD4 T cells in the immune system, and over time, ongoing viral replication depletes these cells, weakening immune defenses. When CD4 counts fall below about 200 cells per microliter or when certain defining illnesses occur, the condition is classified as AIDS. AIDS is the advanced, compromised state that results from HIV, not something caused by AIDS itself. It’s also not a separate treatment or a separate virus. Modern antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV, preserve or restore immune function, and prevent or delay the development of AIDS, allowing people to live longer, healthier lives.

The main concept is that HIV infection leads to AIDS if it is not treated. HIV targets CD4 T cells in the immune system, and over time, ongoing viral replication depletes these cells, weakening immune defenses. When CD4 counts fall below about 200 cells per microliter or when certain defining illnesses occur, the condition is classified as AIDS. AIDS is the advanced, compromised state that results from HIV, not something caused by AIDS itself. It’s also not a separate treatment or a separate virus. Modern antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV, preserve or restore immune function, and prevent or delay the development of AIDS, allowing people to live longer, healthier lives.

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