Defence against disease - HIV & AIDS Flashcards
What is the full name of HIV?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HIV is classified as a retrovirus.
How does HIV replicate?
It needs host cells to replicate.
HIV cannot survive outside the human body.
How is HIV transmitted?
By direct exchange of body fluids
Unlike malaria, HIV is not transmitted by a vector.
List the ways HIV can be transmitted.
- Sexual intercourse
- Blood donation
- Sharing of needles
- From mother to child across the placenta
- Mixing of blood during birth
- Through breast milk
What are the key components of HIV?
RNA and the enzyme reverse transcriptase
Reverse transcriptase is essential for producing DNA in host cells.
What type of cell does HIV primarily attack?
T-helper cell
T-helper cells are crucial for antibody production.
What is the result of HIV infection on antibody production?
It inhibits the body’s capacity to produce antibodies.
What indicates that an individual is HIV positive?
The presence of antibodies in blood tests.
What happens as HIV infection progresses?
The ability to produce antibodies significantly reduces.
What is acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)?
A condition where the immune system is unable to fight off opportunistic pathogens.
What signifies an individual has AIDS?
Suffering from several diseases or conditions simultaneously.
How can the progression of HIV to AIDS be slowed down?
Using anti-retroviral drugs.
What is the impact of successful anti-retroviral drugs on individuals with HIV?
Many can live full-quality lives with normal life expectancies.
True or False: HIV and AIDS are the same thing.
False.
What does HIV refer to?
The specific virus infecting the host.
What does AIDS stand for?
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.
