Understanding HIV and AIDS: Immune System Impact
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Understanding HIV and AIDS: Impact on the Immune System
In 1981, a rare form of pneumonia, caused by a protozoan, was observed. Medical investigators noticed a relationship between this pneumonia and a rare form of skin cancer. Both the pneumonia and the skin cancer seemed to be associated with a widespread failure of the body's immune system.
The Discovery of HIV
By 1983, the pathogen responsible for this immune system disease had been identified. It is a retrovirus. The disease is now known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV specifically targets and kills helper T cells in the body, which are crucial for immune function. The progression of HIV infection ultimately leads to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
How HIV is Transmitted
HIV