Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Ghofran K. Al-khafaji1, Ameer Mohammed Ridhab2 and Haitham Ibrahim Faris3
1Department of Laboratory and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jabir Ibn Hayyan University for
Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Al-Najaf, Iraq.

Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the infecting virus that initiates the condition acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV targets the body’s immune system by attacking and destroying
CD4 T-lymphocytes, which are responsible for the body’s immune system, leading to the gradual
breakdown in the immune system’s strength. With the reduction in the number of functional CD4 cells,
the patient becomes increasingly susceptible to secondary infections and tumors. It is common for a person
HIV positive to take years before progressing to AIDS. HIV is classified as a retrovirus, being a member
of the family of viruses that incorporate their RNA genetic material into the DNA of the infected cell (host
cell) through a process called reverse transcription.
The first signs of the illness may often mimic flu; thereafter, the virus enters a dormant stage for a time
while continuing to damage the immune system. The person is then able to develop opportunistic
infections in addition to AIDS-defining conditions. The clinical symptoms comprise weight reduction,
chronic exhaustion, intermittent fevers, oral and genital ulcers, hyperhidrosis, skin hyperpigmentation,
and night sweats. HIV is contracted mainly through unprotected sex, sharing infected syringes or needles,
and from mother to child “vertically” during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Current global
mortality rates related to AIDS are being lessened through the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which,
while HIV remains without a known cure, does at least significantly delay the progress of the disease.
Preventative measures and treatment are a fundamental focus in the area of global health.
Keywords: HIV, AIDS, RNA, Retrovirus, reverse transcription

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