The Syndrome Known as AIDS is Characterized

Question

The syndrome known as AIDS is characterized
A) by the presence of HIV.
B) as an opportunistic disease resulting from herpesvirus reactivation.
C) by CTL attack on CD4 T cells.
D) by one or more opportunistic diseases and the presence of HIV.
E) by the presence of anti-HIV antibodies.

Accepted Answer

AIDS is characterized by the presence of one or more opportunistic diseases and the presence of HIV. HIV attacks and destroys CD4 T cells, leading to a weakened immune system and making individuals more susceptible to opportunistic diseases. Therefore, the presence of HIV alone (choice A) or the presence of anti-HIV antibodies (choice E) is not sufficient to diagnose AIDS. Herpesvirus reactivation (choice B) is not a defining feature of AIDS, although individuals with AIDS may be susceptible to herpesvirus infections. CTL attack on CD4 T cells (choice C) is a mechanism by which HIV destroys these cells but is not a characterization of AIDS as a whole.