Immunodeficiency syndrome

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention writes that much has been discovered about the nature of HIV and AIDS since the 1980s when it was first identified. However, there remain a great many misconceptions about the basic facts regarding HIV and AIDS. A proper understanding of the disease should help patients cope with the struggles AIDS will present.

HIV is short for human immunodeficiency virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is the virus that can lead to the condition known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. HIV damages the body's immune system by targeting and destroying blood cells called CD4+ T cells, which are primarily responsible for fighting disease. AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection. By the time AIDS develops, the body's immune system is so severely damaged, it vulnerable to various infections and certain kinds of cancers.
What Are The Symptoms of HIV And AIDS?
Upon initial HIV infection, some people may develop flu-like symptoms that last a week or two, writes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However others may not develop any symptoms to indicate infection. In fact, people who are infected with HIV may live for several years appearing to be in perfect health.