HIV infection: The basics

摘要

Human immunodeficiency vims (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). AIDS is a serious, life-threatening illness that has a variety of symptoms. HIV infection can be treated with medications to make patients feel better and to prolong life. However, there is no cure for HIV infection or AIDS. Approximately 34 million people are infected with HIV worldwide. The July 25, 2012, issue of JAMA is dedicated to HIV/AIDS. This Patient Page is adapted from one previously published in the July 21, 2010, JAMA HIV/AIDS theme issue.