Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infects various types of cells carrying the CD4 + receptor, it multiplies in them, thereby impairing their function, then releasing from them and spreading further in the host. Induction of a number of mechanisms (own cytopathogenic effect of HIV, formation of cytotoxic CD8 + T lymphocytes, formation of dysfunctional syncytes of CD4 + T lymphocytes and apoptosis) leads to their gradual decline.
A decrease in the number of CD4 + T lymphocytes leads to the breakdown of regulatory bonds and the destruction of the immune system. Loss of immunity against infections allows the emergence of various opportunistic infections, tumors, immunologically changes and other complications (eg cachexia, encephalopathy, nephropathy).
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is ultimate phase of HIV infection, characterized by the presence of so-called AIDS-indicative diseases (approximately 50 infections, tumors and immunopathological states).