HIV/AIDS Glossary

The following glossary lists key definitions for HIV, AIDS, reproductive health, medical conditions and pharmaceuticals (medications or drugs) related to HIV and AIDS.

A
3TC	An ARV medication (lamivudine) sometimes combined with AZT.
ABC	HIV prevention strategies which are to: Abstain from sexual intercourse; Be faithful to one partner; Condomize (or use condoms).
abstinence	The voluntary decision not to engage in any type of sexual relations.
acute infection	A recently developed medical condition, usually involving intense symptoms. It usually indicates the period of exposure to HIV before the body begins to manufacture antibodies that HIV tests can detect. The person can experience fever, swollen lymph nodes, joint and muscle pains, a rash or other symptoms during this period.
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)	(Also known as "acquired immunodeficiency syndrome"). A medical condition where a person's immune system has progressively weakened after becoming infected by HIV. This makes the person more susceptible to opportunistic infections that the body's immune system is usually able to combat. A CD4 count less than 200 usually indicates an AIDS diagnosis.
ADC	See AIDS Dementia Complex.
adherence	Taking medication according to a prescribed schedule.
adverse event	(Also known an "adverse reaction"). An unwanted side effect of a drug or medicine.
advocacy and support group	An organization or group that assists victims or vulnerable individuals and families.
AIDS	See Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.
AIDS Dementia Complex (ADC)	(Also called "HIV-associated dementia"). A brain malfunction believed to be due to HIV infection in the brain. Symptoms may include speech disorders; memory loss and a loss of concentration; mood changes and depression; poor judgment and the inability to perform normal tasks; and motor difficulties such as ataxia.
AIDS-related or HIV-related illness	An HIV-related illness that results from HIV infection or the consequent opportunistic infection. If the person's condition has progressed to AIDS, the illness is AIDS-related.
AIDS response	Activities of governments, NGOs, and other organizations to fight against the HIV and AIDS epidemic.
alternative medicine	Medical practices that differ from Western, drug-based treatment. It can include traditional medicine, acupuncture, and homeopathy.
amoeba	A parasite that invades the intestines and causes diarrhea, bloating, gas, burping, and abdominal pain.
anemia	A condition where the blood cannot deliver enough oxygen to the body's tissues.
antenatal	Before childbirth.
antibiotic	A drug or medication that kills bacteria to fight off infection.
antibodies	(Also known as "immunoglobulins"). White blood cells produce these proteins to combat infection or other foreign substances (called antigens), including HIV. This attack against the antigens is called an "immune response". HIV tests usually measure the presence of HIV-specific antibodies in order to determine a person's HIV status.
antigen	A foreign substance that triggers an immune response. During an immune response, white blood cells produce antibodies to attack the antigen.
antiretroviral (ARV)	The type of medication used to combat HIV.
antiretroviral therapy (ART)	An antiretroviral medication regime to combat HIV infection.
antiviral	A drug or medication that acts against viruses.
apoptosis	This occurs when cells self-destruct or kill themselves. HIV may cause this occurrence.
approved drug	A drug or medication approved by a regulatory organization (such as the Food and Drug Administration [FDA] in the United States). The organization approves the drug after pre-clinical laboratory trials, animal studies, and clinical trials for safety and efficacy.
ART	See antiretroviral therapy.
ARV	See antiretroviral.
asymptomatic	Having no symptoms.
ataxia	A lack of muscular or motor coordination.
atrophy	Wasting of the body's tissues (weight loss) which can be caused by diarrhea and is one of the possible consequences of AIDS.
attenuated virus	A weakened virus often used in vaccines because it triggers immune responses, but is too weak to cause disease.
AZT	See zidovudine.

Top

B
B cell	A type of white blood cell, originating from bone marrow and the spleen, that produces antibodies. It is one of two cells that play a major role in the body's immune response. The other cell is the T cell. Also, see CD4 cell and lymphocyte.
bacteria	A single-celled micro-organism that causes illness and disease.
bacteremia/ bacteraemia	The presence of bacteria in the blood.
bacterial vaginosis (BV)	An RTI in women that is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. BV is not considered an STI.
baseline	Information or values gathered and recorded at the beginning of a clinical trial to determine a reference point for monitoring changes later in the study.
BCC	Behavior Change Communication is communication created for a target audience to encourage and maintain positive and healthy behavior in favor of potential risky behavior.
benign	Not dangerous to health; not recurrent or progressive. For example, not all strains of HIV-1 produce immune deficiency. The opposite of benign is 'malignant'.
BID	An abbreviation used in prescriptions for taking medication. It means twice daily.
bile	A fluid that the liver can release because of damage caused by infection or drugs. It normally helps the intestines to digest food.
blind study	A clinical trial using two groups; a control group and an experimental group. The participants of the study do not know which group they are in.
b lymphocyte	See B cell.
bone marrow	Soft tissue in the middle of bones that produce blood cells.
bronchitis	An infection of the airways (called bronchi) leading to the lungs.

Top

C
cachexia	Severe wasting of the tissues (weight loss).
cancer	Uncontrolled abnormal cell growth that invades surrounding tissues and can lead to terminal illness. Symptoms include, depending on the site on or in the body, a non-healing sore, unusual bleeding or discharge, a lump, a visual change in a wart or mole, a change in bowel habits, difficulty swallowing, indigestion, a nagging cough or persistent hoarseness. Also, see carcinoma.
candida albicans	A yeast-like fungus that causes infection of areas such as the mouth, intestines, the vagina, and sometimes the skin. Symptoms include white patches on the affected areas, pain, and itching. The infection is also called 'thrush', 'yeast infection' or candidiasis. It is an RTI and is not sexually transmitted.
carcinoma	A malignant (dangerous) tumor (abnormal cell growth) that invades surrounding tissue and may spread throughout the body. Also, see cancer.
CBC	See complete blood count.
CD4	Also called 'T4-helper lymphocytes', 'helper T-cells', or 'T-cells'. A white blood cell that coordinates an immune response to an infection or foreign substance. It does this by signaling other parts of the immune system to respond to the invasion. HIV targets CD4 cells for destruction, which is the major cause of the immunodeficiency observed in AIDS.
CD4 count	The measurement of the body's ability to respond to an infection. Doctors use it to decide the type of ART to administer to a patient. Normal counts range from 500 to 1500. Also, see CD8 cell. A CD4 percent is the percent of all cells (including B cells, CD4 cells, and CD8 cells) that are CD4 cells. The normal value is 35% to 40%.
CD4/CD8 ratio	A measurement of the number of CD4 cells compared to CD8 cells. It indicates the health of the immune system. The normal ratio is two-to-one (i.e. twice as many CD4 cells as CD8 cells).
CD8	Also called a 'CD8 T lymphocyte' or 'CD8 T cell'. This white blood cell can kill other cells that are infected with infection or foreign substances. It may be a cytotoxin or a suppressor T cell. The cytotoxic cell kills the infection. The suppressor T cell suppresses the B cell from producing antibodies after the invading organism has been destroyed. See cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)	The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a United States agency that deals with investigating, identifying, preventing and controlling infectious diseases.
central nervous system (CNS)	One of two main divisions of the body's nervous system. It consists of the brain and spinal cord and processes information that passes between it and the peripheral nervous system. It coordinates and controls the entire body.
cervical cancer	A cancer of the uterine cervix that is caused by infection with genital herpes virus and some types of the human papilloma virus (HPV). See human papilloma virus. Other factors that precipitate the disease may include the start of unprotected sexual relations at an early age, multiple sexual partners without protection, and poor obstetric and gynecologic care. It invades adjacent organs and can spread throughout the body. It is usually asymptomatic, but may include a watery or foul-smelling discharge, occasional blood spotting, and back and leg pains.
cervical smear	Also called a 'pap smear'. A test where a small amount of cells are scraped from the surface of the cervix and examined in a laboratory to determine abnormal cell growth that may be a precondition for cervical cancer.
cervicitis	Inflammation of the cervix, often caused by STIs such as chlamydia, trichomoniasis or gonorrhea, and RTIs such as candidiasis. Symptoms may include a vaginal discharge, but can also exist without symptoms.
cervix	Also called the 'neck of the womb'. The lower part of the uterus that protrudes into the vagina. It allows passage of menstrual fluid.
chancre	A sore, skin lesion or ulcer that indicates a syphilis infection. It can also indicate the point of a tuberculosis infection.
chancroid	A highly contagious STI that affects both men and women. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes and painful genital lesions or ulcers. These ulcers are often mistaken for 'chancres' caused by syphilis.
chemistry screen	A test that measures chemicals produced by the blood. It helps to diagnose infections and drug reactions.
chemotherapy	The treatment of infection and other diseases, such as cancer, using chemicals.
chlamydia	A very common STI that affects both men and women and can lead to infertility in women. The infection often does not display symptoms.
chronic illness	A long-term illness that develops slowly and persists often for the remainder of the person's life.
circumcision	The cutting or removal of the male's genital foreskin (prepuce). Also, see female genital cutting.
civil society organization (CSO)	An organization created by community members to assist vulnerable or needy members of that community.
clades	A term for the different sub-types or strains of the HIV virus. HIV1 and HIV2, for example. There are three main groups of HIV1 strains: M, N, and O. These are further divided into sub-types, or clades. Group M is the 'main' or 'major' group of viruses that is responsible for the majority of HIV-1 infections worldwide (the global pandemic). This group can be divided into at least nine further subtypes (A, B, C, D, F, G, H, J and K). The A, C and D clades are dominant in sub-Saharan Africa. Group O is the 'outgroup', 'other' or 'outlier' group. It is relatively rare and currently found mostly in Cameroon, Gabon, and France Group N is the 'new' group and fits neither the M nor O groups, but comes between group M and the simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV). It is extremely rare and was only discovered in Cameroon in 1998. Different strains may infect different types of cells, which may lead to a higher rate of infection. For example, clades C and E, more common to Asia and Africa, occur more commonly through heterosexual sex than clades B. Clades C and E are more likely to infect vaginal cells, the cervix, and the foreskin of the penis, but not the wall of the rectum. HIV-2 has a lower virulency (less easily transmitted and usually not resulting in full blown AIDS, but is still fatal) than HIV-1 and predominantly appears in west Africa. Only HIV-2 subtypes A and B have been found in any significant number of people.
clinical	The nursing, medical care, observation and treatment of patients.
clinical event	A physical sign or symptom indicating an illness. A diagnosis can sometimes be ascertained from a clinical event as opposed to laboratory test results. Some healthcare providers in low-resource settings evaluate clinical events to diagnose specific STIs and RTIs when laboratory resources are unavailable. These evaluations are called 'clinical management'.
clinical trial	(Also called 'medical research' or 'research study'). An experimental study involving participants who test the safety and efficacy of new drugs, medications, vaccines, therapies, or new ways of using familiar treatments.
clinician	A medical doctor who actively looks after patients.
clitoris	An erectile, hooded organ in the upper part of the female genitalia. It contains a high concentration of nerve endings and is very sensitive to stimulation. This is removed in some types of female genital cutting. See female genital cutting.
cohort	A group of people who share at least one common factor (e.g. being HIV positive) and who are studied over a period of time.
coinfection	Having more than one infection at the same time. For example, when a person with HIV acquires an opportunistic infection, such as tuberculosis.
colitis	Inflammation of the colon (intestines).
combination therapy	Prescribing two or more classes of medications to treat a disease or infection. An example is the use of more than one antiretroviral medication to treat HIV.
complementary medicine	Also known as 'alternative medicine'. Treatment that involves using non-conventional medication or therapies. Also, see traditional medicine.
complete blood count (CBC)	A laboratory test that determines the quality and quantity of white and red blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. It can also measure other values that determine the overall health of blood.
compliance	Also known as 'adherence'. The extent to which a patient takes medication according to a prescribed schedule.
condom	A soft, flexible covering, usually made of latex rubber, that covers the penis (male condom) or vulva/vagina (female condom) during sexual intercourse to prevent semen from entering the vagina to prevent conception or the transmission of STIs.
CMV	See cytomegalovirus.
compassionate use	When a drug manufacturer releases an experimental medication to people who are unable to obtain it in a clinical trial.
condyloma acuminata	Genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). See human papillomavirus.
contagious illness	Also called 'communicable illness'. An illness that spreads easily, by direct or indirect contact.
contraindication	A situation where treatment or medication can be harmful, or decreases in performance, and therefore should not be used. For example, using one medication that interacts with another medication in a way that could harm the patient. Another harmful example is to vaccinate a an HIV-positive patient with a live virus, such as yellow fever.
cross resistance	The situation where a virus, such as HIV, develops resistance to one medication and is likewise resistant to other medications in the same class.
cryptococcosis	An infection, caused by a fungus, that spreads through the lungs to the brain, the central nervous system and the 'meninges' (the membranes that line the central nervous system). Initial symptoms may include coughing and other respiratory problems. Infection of the meninges causes cryptococcal meningitis where symptoms include headache, fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, blurry vision and difficulty speaking. Also, see meningitis.
cryptosporidiosis	A parasitic infection of the intestines. Symptoms include severe diarrhea.
CSO	See civil society organization.
CTL	See cytotoxic t lymphocyte.
culture	A laboratory test where a sample of body fluid or tissue is placed in a dish with a substance that encourages the growth of a possible infecting organism. The culture is later examined to detect the presence of infection.
cytomegalovirus (CMV)	A sexually transmitted herpes virus that can cause disease in many parts of the body, especially the eye, throat, and colon, and can cause blindness. It is a silent infection in most people but re-activates in people with advanced HIV infection (who have CD4 counts under 50). CMV disease can lead to pneumonia and other opportunistic infections.
cytotoxic	Harmful and destructive to cells.
cytotoxic t lymphocyte (CTL)	Also known as 'killer T cell' and 'cytotoxin'. A cell that can kill other cells infected with viruses, fungi, bacteria, cancer and other foreign substances. It is not the same as an antibody that kills free-floating viruses. Also, see CD8 cell.

Top

D
d4T	See stavudine.
declare status	The point where a person declares his or her serostatus. Sometimes an HIV-positive person will fear declaring their status for fear of stigmatization. See serostatus and stigmatization.
dementia	Changes in mental function, co-ordination and personality resulting from direct effects of HIV infection in the brain. See AIDS Dementia Complex (ADC).
depression	Charactarized by a depressed mood, decreased energy, reduced interest in sex, suppressed appetite, and too much sleep or sleeplessness. It is common in people with HIV infection.
dermatitis	Inflammation of the skin that can be due to fungus, bacteria or several other causes. It may be an opportunistic infection in HIV positive individuals.
detuned assay	A test that attempts to determine how recently someone has been infected with HIV. If results show early antibodies, the person may have been infected less than three months. If results show mature antibodies, the person may have been infected for longer than three months.
diagnosis	A description of the causes of a patient's illness or medical problems.
diarrhea	Abnormal bowel movements, characterised by watery or frequent stools.
disease progression	The worsening of a disease.
DNA	The abbreviation for "deoxyribonucleic acid". It consists of genetic information and usually identifies the origin and type of HIV virus. Also, see ribonucleic acid (RNA).
donovanosis	An STI charactarized by serious ulcers at the site of infection. These ulcers can grow together and cause permanent scarring and genital destruction.
dose	A measured amount of a medication to be taken at one time.
drug interaction	The resulting effect of two medications, taken together, interacting with each other. The effect may cause an adverse reaction in the patient that would not normally happen when taking one of the medications on their own.
drug resistance	This occurs when an infecting virus is no longer destroyed or suppressed by the medication a person is taking. This can occur in HIV positive individuals even when the viral load is undetectable.
drug resistance testing	The measurement of the HIV virus's resistance to the ARV medication taken by a patient.

Top

E
early intervention	Starting HIV or PMTCT treatment early in the course of infection or pregnancy.
ectopic pregnancy	This occurs when the fetus grows outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes. It is a potential complication of untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea.
efficacy	How well a medication or treatment works.
EHNRI	Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute.
eligibility criteria	The medical or social standards that determine whether a person may or may not be allowed to participate in a specialized program, such as free ART. Exclusion criteria disqualifies a person, while inclusion criteria qualifies the person as eligible to participate in the program.
ELISA	See enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay.
encephalitis	Inflammation of the brain that can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
enzyme	A substance (protein) in the cells of the body that speeds up chemical reactions.
enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA)	A test that detects HIV antibodies in the blood. The test is very sensitive and can produce a positive result for HIV-negative individuals. In this case, a Western Blot test can confirm their serostatus. See western blot.
epidemic	The occurrence of a disease within a community or region. It may affect the people of a specific geographical area (Ethiopia or East Africa), or of a certain age or gender (children or women), during a given period of cases of the illness. It is more general than an 'outbreak', which is restricted to one locale; but less general than a 'pandemic', which is global, as in the 'AIDS pandemic'. Diseases that commonly occur within a population are said to be ‘endemic’ (such as Meningococcal meningitis, which is endemic to some parts of Africa).
epidemiology	The study of the incidence, distribution and control of a disease in a population.
etiologic management	The management of sexually transmitted infections where the medical practitioner diagnoses STIs using lab test results. Sometimes this type of management is not available in low-resource settings (such as in rural areas).

Top

F
fallopian tubes	Two tubes that are part of the female reproductive system. They transport the egg from the ovaries to the uterus (womb).
FBO	Faith-based organization
FDA	The Food and Drug Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is responsible for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of all drugs, biologics, vaccines, and medical devices, including those used in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HIV infection, AIDS, and AIDS-related opportunistic infections.
female condom	A rubber sheath made of polyurethane with a plastic ring at one end, which is closed, and a larger ring at the other, which is open. The open end covers a woman’s external genitalia to prevent pregnancy or STI and HIV infections.
female genital mutilation (FGM/C)	Female genital mutilation or cutting is the act of removing the clitoris to eliminate sensitivity and sexual stimulation in females.
fetus / foetus	An unborn baby in the later stages of development.
first-line therapy	The type of therapy administered to a patient for the first time.
fungus / fungi	Organisms (yeasts and molds) which cause infection. Common fungal infections in people with HIV infection include candida (thrush), cryptococcus, aspergillus, and histoplasma.

Top

G
GBV	See sexual and gender-based violence.
genetic material	Material that holds information about how a living thing is built, looks, and reproduces. The information is called DNA or RNA.
genital herpes	An STI caused by the herpes virus. It can cause painful genital ulcers in men and women. There is no cure for genital herpes.
genital mycoplasmas	An STI that affects women. It can cause premature delivery in pregnant women if left untreated.
genital ulcer	Crater-like lesions on the skin or mucous membranes of the genital area. They are usually caused by STIs, such as herpes, syphilis, and chancroid.
genital wart	A raised growth of skin around the genital area, usually caused by infection with HPV (human papillomavirus).
giardiasis	A stomach illness caused by the Giardiasis parasite.
gonorrhea	An STI that affects both men and women. Its symptoms include burning or difficulty with urination, itching, and a yellow or green discharge. It can also lead to infertility. It is easily treated with antibiotics.
gynaecology	The study of medical conditions specific to women's reproductive organs.

Top

H
HAART	Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy/Treatment. An anti-HIV combination therapy that involves taking three or more anti-retroviral medications (ARV’s). It helps to delay or avoid the development of drug resistent viruses. Also called the drug 'cocktail' or 'triple-therapy'.
HAPCO	HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Office. Located in Addis Ababa, it organizes, supports, coordinates and monitors and evaluates all HIV/AIDS prevention & control activities undertaken by agencies and individuals. Regional offices include OHAPCO (Oromia Regional State HAPCO); Tigray Regional State HAPCO; Amhara National Regional State HAPCO.
helper cell	Also called 'CD4 T' cell, and 'helper T cell'. These cells regulate the immune response which turns the production of antibodies on and off. They are the main target of the HIV virus, which is how HIV suppresses the body's ability to fight off infection.
hepatitis	A viral infection of the liver that can be transmitted sexually but can also be spread through exposure to infected blood or body fluids. It can lead to severe liver diseases and liver failure. The most common types are hepatitis A, B and C. Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that is transmitted by food or sex; hepatitis B is caused by a virus transmitted by sex or blood exposure (such as a hypodermic needle prick); hepatitis C is caused by a virus that is thought to be transmitted by blood products. There are vaccines for hepatitis A and B, but not for C.
herpes viruses	A family of viruses that can accelerate the progression of HIV infection. It includes herpes simplex one and two (HSV-1, HSV-2), cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) and other subtypes called Human Herpes Viruses (HHV-1, HHV-2, etc.).
histoplasmosis	Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection. It almost always infects the lungs, but can spread to other parts of the body. It can infect people with healthy immune systems and produce only mild symptoms, but in HIV-positive individuals, it can cause more serious respiratory distress, kidney and liver failure, and brain damage. People can become infected from breathing in soil or dust contaminated with bird droppings that contain the fungus. HIV-positive people with a CD4 count below 200 are at the highest risk of developing histoplasmosis after breathing in the fungus. Symptoms include fever, skin lesions, breathing problems, weight loss, and liver enlargement.
HIV	Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the virus which causes AIDS. Infection with HIV does not mean that a person has AIDS (see AIDS). There are two types: HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-1 is more common world-wide. HIV-2 is the predominant virus that causes AIDS in Western Africa. HIV-2 is less aggressive than HIV-1 and does not always react to HIV medications in the same way as HIV-1. The HIV virus is sexually transmitted and by exposure to infected blood or body fluids. See clades for descriptions of the different types of HIV.
HIV viral set point	The rate at which the HIV virus replicates and stabilizes, remaining at a particular level in each individual after the period of primary infection.
HIV-negative	Showing no evidence of HIV infection. This means that no antibodies against HIV are present in a blood or tissue sample. An HIV-negative person can still be infected with HIV if he or she takes an HIV test within the window period between HIV exposure and the detection of antibodies (usually within three months after exposure). Also, called 'seronegative'.
HIV-positive	Showing evidence of HIV infection. This means that antibodies against HIV are present in a blood or tissue sample. A test may occasionally show false positive results, requiring the person to take further tests. Also, called 'seropositive'.
hormones	Chemicals that the body releases to create growth and changes in the body.
HPV	Human papillomavirus. A group of viruses (sexually transmitted) that can cause genital warts, cancer of the cervix and some anal cancers.
hypersensitivity	An allergic reaction.
hypoxaemia	Reduced amounts of oxygen in the blood, usually caused by pneumonia.

Top

I
IEC	Information, education and communication. An advocacy technique used to create and increase an awareness of a particular issue, such as HIV and AIDS.
immune deficiency	The inability of the body to fight off infection, thus making a person susceptible to diseases (opportunistic infections) that they would not ordinarily develop. Literally, the body's immune system is damaged. See immunosuppressed.
immune reconstitution	Improvement of the body's ability to fight off infection. This is usually a consequence of anti HIV therapy (immunotherapy) which boosts the immune system.
immune system	The body's natural system of defense against bacteria and viruses that cause infection.
immunity	The body's natural or acquired resistance to a specific disease. It may be partial or complete, specific or nonspecific, long-lasting or temporary.
immunization	The use of a an antigen, or vaccine, (usually in the form of an injection) to stimulate the immune system to fight off particular infections (measles, typhoid, etc.). The antigen is derived from or similar to the infecting agent which induces immunity by causing the body to recognize and kill the infecting agent. Also, see vaccine, memory cell and live-vector vaccine.
immunosuppressed	When the body has a damaged immune system and, therefore, has difficulty fighting off infection. Also called 'immunocompromised'.
inflammation	A condition characterized by redness, pain, fever, swelling, and sometimes, loss of function.
intervention	A way of preventing or stopping something's progress. Examples of HIV intervention are drug therapy and behavior change.
intestines	The internal parts of the stomach that handle digestion.
Top

J

Top

K

Top

L
latency	A period of little or no activity (usually a time during which the virus is quiet and not reproducing). However, even when people has no symptoms, the virus may still be active. A viral load test can determine if the virus is in a period of latency. See viral load.
lesion	Scratches, bumps, wounds, scars, tumors, insect bites, rashes, and flat patches in or on the body. Abnormalities of internal organs are often called lesions.
LGV	See Lymphogranuloma venereum.
live-vector vaccine	A vaccine that uses a small amount of the organism (usually a virus) that the vaccine was designed to attack when it enters the body. The organism is a weakened version of a live virus. Live-vector vaccines (such as for yellow fever) should be avoided for HIV-positive individuals. Also, see vaccine, immunization, and memory cell.
long-term non-progression	The term used for a person with HIV infection who does not develop AIDS. It can include people who have responded very well to treatment, people who have mounted an effective, long-term immunologic response to HIV, and people who have a weak, non-disease-producing strain of the virus. It usually implies that the person has had HIV infection for ten years or longer and is clinically well, with normal or near-normal CD4 counts.
lymph	A fluid that runs through lymph nodes and into the bloodstream. It plays a major role in the body's immune response to infections. HIV is very active in the lymphoid system, especially the lymph nodes. See lymph node.
lymph node	Areas in the body (as part of the lymphoid system) where immune reactions occur. They are found in the neck, around the collarbone, in the armpit, and in the groin area. They range in size from peas to kidney beans. During a physical exam, doctors usually feel these places, looking for swollen lymph nodes, which are a sign that active infection is present.
lymphocyte	A type of white blood cell that is primarily responsible for immune responses. It is present in the blood, lymph and lymphoid tissues. Also, see B cell and T cell.
lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)	An STI that causes inflammation of and prevents drainage of the lymph nodes in the genital area. LGV can cause destruction and scarring of surrounding tissue.
lymphoid tissues	Organs in the body that filter out invading agents (bacteria and viruses) by trapping them and presenting them to immune cells that kill or neutralize them. The organs include tonsils, adenoids, lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and other tissues.
lymphoma	Cancer of the lymphoid tissues or lymph nodes. HIV infected individuals are at an increased risk of developing lymphoma. It can occur in individuals with high CD4 counts, but is more common in people with low counts. Common symptoms are swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, fever and malaise. The types of lymphomas most commonly associated with HIV infection are called non-Hodgkin's lymphomas or B cell lymphomas. In these types of cancers, certain cells of the stomach, liver, spleen, brain, and bone marrow grow abnormally (into tumors). It can be treated with radiation, chemotherapy, or bone-marrow transplant.

Top

M
MAC	See Mycobacterium Avium Complex.
macrophage	A white blood cell in the immune system that engulfs and destroys pathogens (viruses and bacteria) and other invading particles. In a similar way to CD4 cells, they can contain large amounts of HIV, but without being destroyed, thus acting as reservoirs of the virus.
maintenance therapy	Long-term (perhaps life-long) treatment of an infection, to make sure it does not come back. Usually, drug doses are lower than the levels used to treat an actual case of the infection. Examples of infections that require maintenance therapy include MAC, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and TB. Also called 'suppressive therapy'.
malaise	Feeling bad and generally unwell.
malignant	A progressive and destructive invasion of surrounding tissues, usually associated with cancers. The opposite to malignant is 'benign'.
MARPS	Most at risk population groups . These can include people who have a high risk of contracting HIV (commercial sex workers and intravenous drug users).
MCH	Maternal and child health
MDR-TB	Multidrug-Resistant TB is a form of tuberculosis that is resistant to most standard treatments. It is very difficult to treat and requires combinations of anti-TB medications. MDR-TB develops when patients with TB do not take all of the medications prescribed for as long as they are supposed to.
memory cell	These are a subset of T cells and B cells that have been exposed to specific pathogens by immunization. When the immune system meets the same pathogens again, such as viruses, they recognize them and destroy or neutralize them. See immunization.
meningitis	A viral, bacterial, or fungal infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are referred to as the 'meninges'. Symptoms include severe headache, fever, sensitivity to light, malaise, confusion, and a painful neck. It can be fatal or disabling if not treated early.
menstruation	Menstruation takes place, usually once per month, in a women's reproductive system. It involves blood flowing from inside the vagina (menstrual flow). What is actually happening is that a mixture of blood and tissue is reasled from the womb (uterus) and passes through the opening of the cervix.The time that this bleeding takes place is also called a 'period'. Menstruation or periods usually last from three to five days. The menstrual cycle starts at the beginning of the menstrual flow and usually continues for 28 days until the first day of the next period, but can range from 23 to 35 days. What happens during the menstrual cycle is that an egg leaves one of the ovaries (part of the female reproductive system that manufactures eggs). It travels through one of two tubes (fallopian tubes) down to the uterus, which has been building up blood and tissue in preparation for pregnancy. If a male's sperm enters the uterus or the fallopian tubes and fertilizes the egg, the egg will attach itself to the lining of the uterus and remain there while it develops into a baby. If no sperm enters, the egg does not attach itself, but instead passes out with the blood and tissue that make up the lining. This is when menstruation is taking place.
microbicides	A substance containing agents that can block, kill, or immobilize bacteria and viruses. Products are currently under development that could be used vaginally or rectally to block infection from HIV and other STIs.
microorganism	An organism that can only be seen using a microscope. Viruses and bacteria are microorganisms.
microsporidiosis	An infection of the intestines caused by a parasite. It causes chronic, massive, watery diarrhea. It is difficult to diagnose and treat.
molluscum contagiosum	An STI of the skin that is caused by a virus. It can produce benign skin infections, but can also lead to secondary bacterial infections. Symptoms are small, pearly-white bumps, usually on the face and torso. The bumps often have a little indentation in the middle. They are not painful or itchy. The only effective treatment, is to destroy the lesions by scooping them out, freezing them with liquid nitrogen, or zapping them with a tiny electric needle. If not treated early, they usually get worse and spread.
mother-to-child transmission (MTCT)	The transmission of infection, usually HIV, from the mother to the child during pregnancy, labor, or delivery or through breastfeeding. The term 'parent-to-child transmission PTCT' is also sometimes used. See PMTCT.
mycobacterium avium complex	An infection caused by mycobacteria organisms (a type of bacteria). It is difficult to treat but can include a combination of medication used to treat turberculosis. Symptoms include weight loss, fever, night sweats, and general malaise. MAC is uncommon in people with CD4 counts above 50. The risk of MAC is great enough that doctors routinely prescribe medication to prevent it in people with low CD4 counts. Also called 'MAI'.
mycosis	A general name for fungal infection.

Top

N
neuropathy	A disorder involving damaged nerves that can be a result of HIV infection or of antiretroviral therapy. It is estimated that 35% of individuals with HIV infection have some form of neuropathy. Symptoms include pain, tingling, or numbness in the feet or hands.
nevirapine	Medication given to HIV positive patients (usually children) to prevent the HIV from reproducing thereby decreasing the destruction of the body's immune system, lowering the viral load, and increasing CD4 cell counts. Part of a class of medication called 'NNRTI'. See NNRTI.
NGO	A non-governmental organization (it is not part of the local, state or federal government). It usually behaves as a charitable foundation to assist needy people that government organizations find difficult to reach or assist.
NNRTI	Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors are a class of medication used in ART. They are are always used in combination with other anti-HIV medications. See reverse transcriptase.
nongonococcal urethritis (NGU)	A urine infection caused by microorganisms other than gonorrhea. It is often caused by chlamydia.
nucleoside analog	A class of medication used to treat HIV. AZT was the first nucleoside analog used to treat HIV. See AZT and reverse transcriptase.

Top

O
opportunistic infections (OI)	Infections or illnesses that affect people whose immune systems have been weakened by the HIV virus. It usually involves the lungs, brain, eyes and other organs. The infections are called 'opportunisitic' because they take advantage of the weakened immune system to cause illnesses that would not normally occur in people with healthy immune systems. Common opportunistic infections in HIV positive individuals are: pneumonia (PCP), tuberculosis, cryptosporidiosis, histoplasmosis, CMV, MAC, toxoplasmosis, other parasitic, viral, bacterial and fungal infections, and some types of cancers.
organism	A living thing that has (or can develop) the ability to act or function independently. See microorganism.
orphans and vulnerable children (OVC)	An orphan is a child who is less than 18 years old and who has lost one or both parents, regardless of the cause of the loss. A vulnerable child is a child who is less than 18 years of age and whose survival, care, protection or development might have been jeopardized due to a particular condition, and who is found in a situation that jeopardizes the fulfillment of his or her rights. The HIV and AIDS pandemic has created millions of OVCs globally.
ovaries	Two small sacs in the abdomen that form the part of the female reproductive system that retains the eggs.

Top

P
pandemic	A disease that is prevalent throughout the whole world. It is also used to describe illnesses that affect an entire country, region, or continent.
pap smear / cervical smear	A medical laboratory test used to diagnose cancer of the cervix. 'Pap' is an abbreviation for ‘papanicolaou test’.
pathogen	Anything that causes illness or disease. It is usually a virus, fungus, or bacteria.
PCP	See pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.
PCR	See polymerase chain reaction.
pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)	An illness that affects women most often caused by untreated STIs (such as chlamydia or gonorrhea). Symptoms include fever, pelvic pain or cramps, and vaginal discharge; but it can also exist without symptoms. If left untreated it can lead to infertility (the inability to get pregnant).
PEP	See post-exposure prophylaxis.
people living with HIV (PLWHIV)	People infected or affected by the HIV virus. Their illness may or may not have advanced to the stage of AIDS. It is preferable to use this term, as opposed to 'people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA)' as PLWHA implies that HIV and AIDS are the same. An HIV-positive person can continue to live for several years without acquiring AIDS.
PID	See pelvic inflammatory disease.
PLWHA	People living with HIV and AIDS. See people living with HIV.
PMTCT	See prevention of mother-to-child transmission.
pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP)	A type of pneumonia (a serious lung infection) that commonly affects HIV-positive individuals with CD4 counts below 200. The organism that causes it lives in the lungs of most healthy people without causing any illness. HIV-positive individuals with low CD4 counts should regularly take medication for PCP, even though they may feel well. Symptoms include a fever, dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
polymerase chain reaction (PCR)	A laboratory test that measures the amount of HIV in the blood (viral load). See viral load and ELISA.
post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)	A medication or drug given to a person immediately, or as soon as possible, after potential exposure to HIV to reduce the risk of infection. It is usually given to health care workers who are accidentally pricked by hypodermic needles, and to rape victims.
PPD	See purified protein derivative .
prevalence	The proportion of people living with HIV, or HIV-positive persons, at a specific point in time. It usually refers to individuals 15 to 49 years old and is usually presented as a percentage. For example, in 2005, Ethiopia had an estimated HIV prevalence of 3.5%.
prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT)	Administration of medication to HIV-positive pregnant women to prevent transmitting the virus to the child during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.
prevention trials	Trials that attempt to find better ways of preventing disease in people who have never had the disease, or to prevent a disease from returning. They may include administering medicines, vitamins, vaccines, or encouraging behavioral changes.
preventive HIV vaccine	A vaccine designed to prevent getting infected from HIV. Currently, (2006) no such vaccine exists, but prevention trials are underway in various countries to find one.
primary care provider	A health care worker who provides overall medical care. He or she can be a doctor or physician [MD], a rural health care provider, or a traditional practitioner. They may refer patients to specialists for specific ailments.
prophylaxis	Treatment or therapy given to prevent disease. ‘Primary prophylaxis’ is given to prevent a first infection, while ‘secondary prophylaxis’ is given to prevent further or recurrent infections.
protease	An enzyme that HIV uses to copy (replicate) itself. The class of antiretroviral medication aimed at destroying this enzyme is called 'protease inhibitor'.
protease inhibitor	A class of anti-HIV medication or drugs that inhibits HIV replication.
pruritic	Itchy.
puberty	Puberty occurs when young people begin to develop into adults (into sexual maturity). The person's body experiences physical and emotional changes due to the body releasing growth hormones. This can cause new thoughts and feelings that the person never experienced before. This experience of new thoughts and feelings is called 'adolescence'. Sometimes however, the body matures physically before the mind, or the opposite can happen. When adolescents (teenagers) experience this, they sometimes become difficult to understand and get along with. As a result, this can become a very difficult time for relationships between parents and adolescents. Puberty can begin between the ages of nine and fourteen in girls, and between the ages of ten to seventeen for boys. It can last from one year to six years. Boys shoulders will widen, and their bodies will become more muscular. Their voices will become deeper and their genitals will enlarge. Girls will usually develop curves and gain weight on their hips and their breasts start to develop.
purified protein derivative (PPD)	A test that determines exposure to TB. A small amount of the TB organism is injected under the skin. A reaction at the site of the injection will occur in people who have been exposed to TB. HIV-positive individuals may have a negative test result, but still may have been exposed to TB, sometimes years earlier.

Top

Q

Top

R
rape	A type of SGBV where a person (usually a female) is forced to submit to sexual intercourse against her will.
regimen	To take prescribed medication in specific doses and at specified times.
remission	The time during which a disease is inactive, but could still be present.
resistance	The ability of a virus to resist the medication or drug designed to destroy or neutralize it, such as AZT and protease inhibitor medications. All ARVs have some resistance. However, HIV-positive individuals receiving treatment should continue taking them even when there is evidence of resistance because not every strain of HIV in a person's body is resistant. Combination therapy discourages resistance because it involves taking more than one type of medication. See drug resistance.
resistance testing	The HIV virus changes (mutates) over time in order to resist destruction by ARVs. Several types of resistance tests help to determine how to change ARV treatment to respond to these mutations in order to continue controlling the virus and reducing viral load.
reiter's syndrome	A complication of untreated chlamydia. It consists of recurrent episodes of urethritis/cervicitis, arthritis, conjunctivitis, and skin rashes.
reproductive tract infections (RTIs)	Infections of the genital region that include STIs or other common infections of the genital area. See sexually transmitted infection.
retrovirus	A type of virus (such as HIV) that carries its genetic material in the form of RNA rather than DNA. In most animals and plants, DNA is usually made into RNA, rather than the opposite where RNA is made into DNA; hence the term 'retro'. The reverse transcriptase enzyme in the virus causes this process. This is why anti-HIV medication is called antiretrovirals (ARVs). Also, see genetic material, DNA, RNA and reverse transcriptase.
reverse transcriptase	HIV and other retroviruses produce this enzyme to enable them to copy and translate RNA into DNA, which in turn allows the virus to continue making more copies of itself. Also, see enzyme.
ribonucleic acid (RNA)	HIV and other retroviruses carry RNA instead of the more common genetic material DNA. Also, see DNA.
RTI	See reproductive tract infections.

Top

S
safe sex	Sexual activity that lowers the risk of disease (such as HIV and STIs) and unintended pregnancy. It involves the correct use of male or female condoms and a reduction in the number of sexual partners. However, sex is only 100% safe from HIV transmission when both partners know they are HIV-negative and that neither partner is within the window period between being exposed to HIV and the detection of HIV antibodies in an HIV test. Also, see window period.
sepsis	A potentially life-threatening bacterial blood infection. Symptoms include fever and low blood pressure.
seronegative	An HIV-negative status where no HIV antibodies appear in the blood.
seropositive	An HIV-positive status where HIV antibodies appear in the blood.
serostatus	The positive or negative results of an HIV test. It indicates the presence or absence of antibodies in the blood. Also, see seronegative, seropositive and ELISA.
sexually transmitted infection (STI)	Infections passed from person to person usually by sexual contact. Hypodermic needle-prick and other types of exposure to infected blood can also pass these infections. They were formerly called 'sexually transmitted disease (STD)' and 'venereal disease (VD)'. Common STIs include syphilis, gonorrhoea, HIV, chlamydia, HPV, genital herpes and warts, chancroid, genital mycoplasmas, hepatitis B, trichomoniasis, enteric infections and some parasitic diseases. Also, see reproductive tract infections.
sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV)	The type of violence that occurs when males aggress or attack females in order to cause them physical or emotional harm. It can help to increase the prevalence of HIV because it denies females to right to choose or negotiate how to respond to sexual advances, such as whether or not to wear condoms to protect themselves against HIV and STIs.
side effect	Any unwanted, negative or adverse effect of a medication or treatment. It may include headache, nausea, hair loss, skin irritation, or other physical problems. Some side effects are minor, but others can be life threatening. Also, see adverse event.
simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)	A virus similar to HIV that affects some primates (monkeys and chimpanzees). Some scientists believe that the origin of HIV is derived from SIV.
sputum	Fluid (phlegm) coughed up from the lungs. Testing this fluid can diagnose PCP and TB.
stavudine	An ARV medication that inhibits the reverse transcriptase enzyme used by HIV. Also called 'd4T'.
sterilizing immunity	When the immune system completely prevents an infection from establishing itself in the body.
STI	See sexually transmitted infection.
stigmatization	When a person is disrespected, disgraced, discredited, discriminated against or persecuted, usually for a specific quality or condition of the victim (such as an HIV-positive status). Also, see declare status.
surrogate marker	A measurement of the number of CD4 cells that shows how much damage HIV has caused.
surveillance	The ongoing and systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of information about a disease. For example, the Ministry of Health carries out HIV surveillance at various health centers throughout the country.
syndromic management	An approach to STI/RTI management in which diagnosis is based on the identification of syndromes (combinations of the symptoms the client reports and the signs the health care provider observes). This type of approach is normally used in low resource settings (such as in rural areas where ther may be no medical laboratories).
syphilis	An STI that affects both men and women. Symptoms include sores on the vagina, penis, anus, mouth, or lips. These sores heal by themselves, but the untreated infection can damage the heart and nervous system, and can cause death.

Top

T
TB	See tuberculosis.
TBA	See traditional birth attendant.
T cell	See CD4 cell.
therapeutic HIV vaccine	A vaccine designed to boost the immune response to HIV in a person already infected with the virus. Also called an 'immunotherapeutic vaccine'.
T lymphocyte proliferation assay (LPA)	A laboratory test that measures how well a person's immune system is functioning. It can be used to measure improvements following antiretroviral therapy and to detect the presence of antibodies against specific opportunistic infections.
thrush	See candida albicans.
T.I.D.	A term meaning that pills should be taken three times a day.
topical	Usually referred to how to apply a medication; directly to the skin or mucous membranes (such as the mouth, anus, or vagina).
total parenteral nutrition (TPN)	Nutrition, or food, given intravenously (through a needle attached to a bag containing a liquid with all the nutrients necessary to keep a person alive). It can be given to hospitalized AIDS patients who can longer get their nutrition through eating.
toxicity	An adverse side effect of a medication or drug that is harmful to a person's health. The level of toxicity can range from annoying to life threatening.
toxoplasmosis	An infection of the brain caused by a parasite found in the feces of domestic animals such as cows, cats and dogs. A person can be infected without knowing it. It is a risk for HIV-positive individuals with very low CD4 counts, and requires an indefinite course of medication to prevent it from reoccurring. Symptoms include fever, headache, confusion, seizures and, if untreated, coma.
treatment trial	Trying out period when new treatments and new combinations of medication are tested.
traditional birth attendant (TBA)	A midwife or other health care worker skilled or experienced in delivering babies.
traditional medicine	A medical knowledge system used and practiced for centuries before modern, Western medicine. It involves using plant, animal and mineral-based medicines, spiritual therapies and manual techniques and exercises. Many PLWHIV who do not have access to ART seek help from traditional practitioners or healers.
treatment literacy	The level of a patient's understanding of the functions and limitations of antiretroviral medication and treatment.
trichomoniasis	An STI that affects both men and women, and can lead to infertility in women, or early labor in pregnant women. Symptoms include itching, burning, and a foul-smelling discharge, but may also have no symptoms. Also called 'trichomonas' and 'trichomonas vaginalis'.
triple viral therapy / triple therapy	A strategy of using three different types of medication to discourage HIV progression. See HAART.
tuberculosis (TB)	A serious lung infection. It is an airborne illness and easily transmissible, requiring the isolation of infected patients. In most HIV-positive patients with TB, the infection manifests after previous exposure, sometimes years before. Symptoms include weight loss, fever, and a cough, often with blood-streaked mucus (sputum). It is difficult to treat and requires multiple medications. Prior exposure to TB can be determined by the PPD test.

Top

U
urethritis	A condition that affects men, caused by STIs, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomonas. Symptoms include discharge from the penis or pain upon urination.
uterus	A hollow muscular organ in the abdomen, as part of the female reproductive system, that holds the developing fetus. Also called the 'womb'.

Top

V
vaccinate	To administer a vaccination or immunization in the form of an injection to prevent a specific type of illness. Also known as 'immunize'. Also, see immunization and vaccine.
vaccine	A substance used to combat specific illnesses. It consists of a small amount of the organism (usually a virus) that the substance was designed to attack when it enters the body. The organism is usually a weakened live version of the virus, or a dead one. When a person is vaccinated with the vaccine (usually by injection), the body's immune system learns to recognize the organism as a pathogen and proceeds to kill or neutralize any of the same organisms that enter the body in future. Most vaccines are safe and desirable for HIV-positive individuals, but live, weakened ones (such as for yellow fever) should be avoided. Also, see immunization, memory cell and live-vector vaccine.
vagina	The lower part of the female reproductive system that consists of a moist passage leading from the uterus. The fetus passes through the vagina during childbirth.
vaginal discharge	A liquid substance that flows out of the vagina. It is usually a symptom of some STIs and RTIs.
vaginitis	Inflammation of the vagina that can be caused by STIs. Symptoms include a vaginal discharge, bad odor, irritation, and/or itching.
VCT	See voluntary counseling and testing.
viral load	A measurement of the amount of HIV virus in a person's body. It is used to determine how active the virus is and if current treatment is effective. The PCR laboratory test measures the viral load. See polymerase chain reaction.
virology	The study of viruses.
virulence	The strength and ability of an organism, such as a virus, to cause illness.
virus	A microorganism that infects a person's body and reproduces in an attempt to cause illness. It reproduces by infecting other cells in the body and using them to produce more viruses.
voluntary counseling and testing (VCT)	A form of counseling and testing to prevent and diagnose HIV infection. It involves the person voluntarily seeking these services, which are usually confidential (secret).

Top

W
western blot	An HIV test that detects the different types of antibodies that the immune system has sent to destroy the different parts of the HIV virus. It is usually used to confirm an inconclusive or positive ELISA test.
window period	The time between exposure to HIV and the time it can take for the body to develop HIV antibodies (usually three months). An HIV test taken during this period can produce a negative result, although the person may still be HIV-positive.

Top

X

Top

Y
yeast infection	An RTI fungal infection of the vagina that is not sexually transmitted. Also called 'candidiasis' and 'moniliasis'.

Top

Z
zidovudine (ZDV)	A drug or medication commonly used to treat HIV and AIDS, usually known by the brand name AZT. It belongs to a class of medication called 'nucleoside analogs'. It was the first drug licensed by the FDA to treat HIV. It is also used in PMTCT.

Top