title: Acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
abstract: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) occurs as a result of a defect in cell mediated immunity with a comparatively normal humoral immunity. Originally diagnosed in four distinct groups, AIDS is now recognized in six high-risk groups. Many theories of etiology exist; the most accepted etiologic agent is the Human T-lymphotropic retrovirus (HTLV). Clinical presentations are that of an opportunistic infection or a nonspecific illness. Once AIDS is diagnosed, medicine has little to offer the AIDS victim. CDC recommendations for health personnel and AIDS patients are reviewed.
mesh_terms: D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy / Q000635:transmission; D002487:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S.; D005260:Female; D006205:Haiti / Q000208:ethnology; D006280:Health Workforce; D006467:Hemophilia A / Q000150:complications; D006716:Homosexuality; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007275:Injections, Intravenous / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012306:Risk; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications; D014481:United States