Patient Information
Overview of HIV and AIDS
Fed Pract. 2014 January;31(1):47-48
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) weakens the immune system, making it difficult for the body to protect itself and fight against illness. Over time, the immune system can clear most viruses, but it cannot rid itself of HIV. When HIV destroys the immune system by attacking T cells and CD4 cells in the body, the virus can develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).