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Glossary
| Last updated: 28.10.05 |
adherence
The act of taking a treatment exactly as described.
AIDS
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. A collection of specific illnesses and conditions which occur because the body’s immune system has been damaged by HIV.
CD4
A molecule on the surface of some cells onto which HIV can bind. The CD4 cell count roughly reflects the state of the immune system.
dementia
Changes in mental function, co-ordination and personality resulting from direct effects of HIV infection in the brain.
HAART
Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy, a term used to describe anti-HIV combination therapy with three or more drugs.
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus, the virus which causes AIDS.
immune system
The body’s mechanism for fighting infections and eradicating dysfunctional cells.
NNRTI
Non nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, the family of antiretrovirals which includes efavirenz and nevirapine.
NRTI
Nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor, the family of antiretrovirals which includes AZT, ddI, 3TC, ddC, abacavir and FTC.
side-effect
Unwanted result or consequence of a treatment.