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HIV

Synonym(s)

  • AIDS virus
  • HTLV-III
  • human immunodeficiency viruses
  • human T-lymphotropic virus type III
  • LAV-HTLV-III

Definition(s)

The virus isolated and recognized as the etiologic agent of AIDS. HIV-1 is classified as a lentivirus, a subtype of retroviruses.

Definition from: NCI Thesaurus via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

Human immunodeficiency virus, the cause of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Definition from:  National Cancer Institute dictionaryThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference.

Any of several retroviruses and especially HIV-1 that infect and destroy helper T cells of the immune system causing the marked reduction in their numbers that is diagnostic of AIDS -- called also AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus.

Definition from: Merriam-Webster's Medical DictionaryThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. by Merriam-Webster Inc.

Related discussion in the Handbook

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: February 25, 2013