What is the relationship between HIV and AIDS?
https://www.healthline.com/health/hiv-aids/hiv-vs-aids
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The relationship between HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is that HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV weakens the immune system by attacking CD4 cells, which are a type of white blood cells that help the body fight infections and diseases. When someone is infected with HIV, they may not immediately develop symptoms, but the virus can still be present in their body and can be transmitted to others. If left untreated, HIV can progress to a more advanced stage known as AIDS.
AIDS is considered the final and most severe stage of HIV infection. It occurs when the immune system is significantly damaged, and the CD4 cell count drops below a certain level. At this point, the body becomes more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain types of cancers. Without proper treatment and medical care, AIDS can be life-threatening.
To determine the relationship between HIV and AIDS, medical professionals conduct laboratory tests to detect the presence of HIV antibodies or genetic material (RNA or DNA) in a person's blood. This process involves multiple steps including taking a blood sample, analyzing it in a laboratory, and interpreting the results. A positive result indicates HIV infection, while a diagnosis of AIDS is made based on criteria that includes the presence of certain opportunistic infections or a low CD4 cell count. It's important to note that not all individuals living with HIV will progress to AIDS, as timely treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help slow down the progression of the disease.