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AIDS Medical Glossary and Drug Chart
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Definitions are given by the full name of the term or generic
name of the drug, not by the abbreviation or brand name. For example,
the definition of KS will be found under Kaposi's Sarcoma. The
only abbreviations commonly used within definitions are HIV, AIDS,
RNA, DNA, and FDA.
Terms used that are defined elsewhere in the Glossary are in CAPITALS.
The drug chart lists alternative names for commonly prescribed
medications.
E
Early Access Program: see EXPANDED ACCESS PROGRAM.
EBV: see EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS.
Echinacea: a commonly used herb for maintaining
the IMMUNE SYSTEM. Little CLINICAL TRIAL data are available on
the herb's value, if any, in HIV and AIDS.
Edema: swelling caused by an abnormal accumulation
of fluid in body tissues.
Efavirenz (Sustiva, Stocrin): a NON-NUCLEOSIDE
REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE INHIBITOR (NNRTI) from Bristol-Myers Squibb.
Common SIDE EFFECTS include dizziness, insomnia, drowsiness, trouble
concentrating, unusual dreams, rash, diarrhea and vomiting.
Effectiveness: the actual outcome produced by
a drug for patients over time; considers "real world" factors
such as tolerability in addition to EFFICACY.
Efficacy: strength or potency. The ability of
a drug to control or cure an illness. Efficacy should be distinguished
from ACTIVITY, which is limited to a drug's immediate effects on
the MICROBE triggering the disease and from EFFECTIVENESS, which
is considers it's use under "real world" conditions.
Elavil: see AMITRIPTYLINE.
Electrolytes: compounds that divide into electrically
charged subunits (ions) when dissolved in water. Movement of these
ions creates an electrical current. Electrolytes are found in varying
amounts in blood PLASMA, tissues and cell fluids. The body must
have the correct amount of the main electrolytes, including calcium,
potassium and sodium, to maintain proper amounts of intracellular
water, conduct nerve signals and allow for proper cellular response
to CYTOKINES and other outside stimuli. Electrolyte solutions may
be used as treatment to replenish fluids and electrolytes during
episodes of dehydration.
Eligibility Criteria: see INCLUSION CRITERIA.
ELISA: see ENZYME-LINKED IMMUNOSORBENT ASSAY.
Emtricitabine (FTC): an experimental NUCLEOSIDE
ANALOG from Gilead Sciences.
Encephalitis: a brain INFLAMMATION of viral or
other microbial origin. Symptoms include headaches, neck pain,
fever, nausea, vomiting and nervous system problems. Several types
of OPPORTUNISTIC CONDITIONS can cause encephalitis.
Encephalopathy: a progressive, degenerative brain
disease.
Endemic: widespread incidence of a particular
disease in a certain population or region.
Endocarditis: a bacterial infection, most commonly
caused by Staphylococcus aureus, that leads to INFLAMMATION
of the heart valves. Endocarditis has been associated with INTRAVENOUS
drug use. Although potentially fatal if untreated, it can be treated
with ANTIBIOTICS.
Endocervix: the lining of the cervical canal.
Endocrine: 1. A HORMONE. 2. Pertaining to internal
secretions.
Endocrine Gland: one of the organs in the body
that produces HORMONES.
Endogenous: originating within the organism in
question.
Endometrium: the MUCOUS MEMBRANE that lines the
uterus.
Endothelium: a layer of flat cells that line
the cavities of the heart and its blood and LYMPHATIC VESSELS.
Endpoint: a category of data used to compare
the outcome between different ARMS of a CLINICAL TRIAL, it is the
treatment effect of interest. Common endpoints are disease progression,
death or alterations in such SURROGATE MARKERS as CD4 CELL COUNT
or viral load. See also CLINICAL ENDPOINT.
Enfuvirtide (T-20, Fuzeon, Pentafuside): an approved
FUSION INHIBITOR from Trimeris / Roche. It is administered as a
SUBCUTANEOUS injection. Common SIDE EFFECTS include irritation
at the injection site, fever and headache.
Enrollment Criteria: see INCLUSION CRITERIA.
Enteral: within or through the intestines.
Enteric: pertaining to the intestines.
Enteric Coating: a protective coating on a pill
that allows its medication to remain undissolved until it has reached
the small intestine.
Env Gene: the GENE in HIV that encodes information
allowing the production of the GP160 ENVELOPE POLYPROTEIN, which
later becomes the GP120 and GP41envelope PROTEINS.
Envelope: the outer covering of a VIRUS, sometimes
called the coat.
Enzyme: a PROTEIN that acts as a catalyst.
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): the
most common test used to detect the presence of HIV ANTIBODIES
in the blood, which indicate exposure to HIV. A positive ELISA
test result must be confirmed by another test called a WESTERN
BLOT.
Eosinophil: a type of GRANULOCYTE thought to
play a role in fighting parasites and in producing allergic reactions.
Its name comes from these cells'absorption of the red dye eosin.
Eosinophillic Folliculitis: an inflammatory reaction
around hair follicles, characterized by very itchy PAPULES that
may grow together to form plaques. The cause of this condition
in people with AIDS has yet to be established, although the condition
obviously involves invasion of the follicles by EOSINOPHILS. Partially
successful treatment has been reported with ultraviolet light,
STEROIDS, antihistamines and ITRACONAZOLE.
Epidemiology: the branch of medical science that
studies the incidence, distribution and control of disease in a
population.
Epithelial: refers to the cell linings covering
most internal and external surfaces of the body and its organs.
Epitope: a unique molecular shape or AMINO ACID
sequence carried on a microorganism that triggers a specific ANTIBODY
or cellular IMMUNE RESPONSE.
Epivir: see LAMIVUDINE.
Epogen: a RECOMBINANT version of ERYTHROPOIETIN,
a natural GLYCOPROTEIN that stimulates red blood cell production.
Epogen is used as a treatment for drug-related ANEMIA, including
that caused by ZIDOVUDINE (AZT). Epogen is made by Amgen. An identical
product, known as Procrit, is made by Ortho Biotech.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): a herpes-like virus
that causes one of the two kinds of MONONUCLEOSIS (the other is
caused by CYTOMEGALOVIRUS). It infects the nose and throat and
is contagious. EBV lies dormant in the LYMPH NODES and has been
associated with BURKITT'S LYMPHOMA and ORAL HAIRY LEUKOPLAKIA.
Erythrocyte: a red blood cell that carries oxygen
throughout the body.
Erythrocytopenia: a low count of ERYTHROCYTES.
Erythromycin: an ANTIBIOTIC, often used to treat
people who are allergic to penicillin or to treat penicillin-resistant
infections.
Erythropoietin: a natural GLYCOPROTEIN that stimulates
red blood cell production. See EPOGEN.
Estrogen: female sex HORMONES, either natural
or synthetic.
Ethambutal (Myambutal): an ANTIBIOTIC used in
COMBINATION THERAPY for treatment of mycobacterial infections such
as TUBERCULOSIS and MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM COMPLEX (MAC).
Etiology: the study of the causes or origin of
disease.
Excipient: an inactive, soluble binding agent
for incorporating an active drug into a pill.
Exclusion Criteria: criteria that are used to
exclude certain people from CLINICAL TRIALS, often established
for safety reasons. Some common exclusion criteria include pregnancy
or the presence of OPPORTUNISTIC CONDITIONS.
Exogenous: originating outside the organism in
question.
Expanded Access Program: refers to any of the
FDA procedures (including COMPASSIONATE USE, PARALLEL TRACK and
TREATMENT INVESTIGATIONAL NEW DRUG) that distributes EXPERIMENTAL
DRUGS to patients who are failing on currently available treatments
and also are unable to participate in ongoing CLINICAL TRIALS.
Experimental Drug: a drug that has not been approved
by the FDA to treat a particular condition.
Extra-Ocular: outside of the eyes.
F
Famciclovir (Famvir): a PRODRUG for an ACYCLOVIR-like
active compound. It has especially high BIOAVAILABILITY and is
an approved therapy for SHINGLES and recurrent outbreaks of herpes
simplex-2 (see HERPES VIRUS). SIDE EFFECTS are relatively infrequent
but can include headache, nausea and fatigue.
Famvir: see FAMCICLOVIR.
Fanconi's Syndrome: dysfunction of the RENAL
tubules whereby AMINO ACIDS, PROTEIN and GLUCOSE occur in the urine.
Fanconi-like SYNDROME has been noted in people taking high doses
of ADEFOVIR.
Fat Redistribution: see LIPODYSTROPHY.
FDA: see FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION.
FDC: see FOLLICULAR DENDRITIC CELL.
Fenofibrate: a drug used to lower blood LIPID
levels.
Fibrosis: internal scarring.
First-Line Treatment: the optimal starting therapy
for a TREATMENT-NAIVE patient. Due to the potential for the development
of CROSS-RESISTANCE by HIV and other MICROBES, the choice of first-line
medication(s) will affect the EFFICACY of succeeding (second-line)
therapies.
Flagyl: see METRONIDAZOLE.
Floaters: drifting dark spots within the field
of vision. Floaters can be caused by CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV) RETINITIS,
but also can appear in persons as a normal part of the aging process.
Fluconazole (Diflucan): an antifungal drug that
is FDA-approved for treating and preventing CANDIDIASIS in the
vagina, mouth, esophagus and other parts of the body. It is also
approved for treating CRYPTOCOCCAL MENINGITIS and in this case
is usually administered following two weeks of AMPHOTERICIN B.
Possible SIDE EFFECTS include liver injury, ANAPHYLAXIS and skin
peeling.
Flucytosine (5-FC, Ancobon): an antifungal drug
that is indicated for the treatment of REFRACTORY fungal infections
caused by CANDIDA and CRYPTOCOCCUS. In HIV-positive individuals,
flucytosine is also used in combination with AMPHOTERICIN B or
FLUCONAZOLE for treatment of CRYPTOCOCCAL MENINGITIS. Possible
SIDE EFFECTS include liver damage.
Fluoxetine (Prozac): an antidepressant.
Fluvastatin: a drug used to lower blood CHOLESTEROL
levels.
Fold Resistance: the number of times a drug's
concentration needs to be multiplied in order to inhibit viral
replication as compared to a REFERENCE VIRUS. For example, if it
takes four times as much of a particular drug to inhibit viral
replication in a mutant strain of HIV, as compared to a sample
strain, then the mutant virus has a four-fold resistance to that
drug. Currently, it is not known how great a fold resistance is
required for treatment to fail, and this is likely to differ with
different drugs and/or drug classes.
Folic Acid: a part of the VITAMIN B complex that
is required for certain metabolic reactions.
Follicle: a small body cavity with a secretory
or excretory function.
Follicular Dendritic Cell (FDC): a VIRUS-trapping
DENDRITIC CELL found in LYMPH NODE follicles (see GERMINAL CENTER).
Fomites: dried droplets of respiratory secretions.
Fomivirsen (Vitravene): Isis Pharmaceuticals'
ANTISENSE DRUG that is approved to treat CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV)
RETINITIS as an INTRAOCULAR injection.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA): an agency
of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Aside
from regulating the safety of foods and cosmetics, the FDA regulates
the testing of EXPERIMENTAL DRUGS and approves new medical products
for marketing based on evidence of safety and EFFICACY.
Fortovase: see SAQUINAVIR.
Fosamprenavir: a PROTEASE INHIBITOR being developed
by GlaxoSmithKline. Fosamprenavir is a PRODRUG of AMPRENAVIR.
Foscarnet (Foscavir): a FDA-approved ANTIVIRAL
drug to treat CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV) infection in the RETINA and
elsewhere in the body. It is also approved for ACYCLOVIR-resistant
herpes simplex virus in immune deficient persons. Kidney toxicity
is a serious problem with foscarnet. Other SIDE EFFECTS include
seizures, ANEMIA, nausea and skin rashes.
Foscavir: see FOSCARNET.
Fovea: a region in the middle of the RETINA (MACULA)
that is responsible for detailed central vision.
Free HIV: HIV VIRUS that has not entered a cell.
Free HIV can be found in blood and other bodily fluids, and it
is this that is measured by VIRAL LOAD tests.
Free Radical: a chemically active, charged atom
or complex of atoms containing an excess or deficient number of
electrons. Radicals seek to transfer electrons from or to other
atomic complexes in order to achieve a more stable configuration.
This process can damage the large molecules within cells. See OXIDATION.
FTC: see EMTRICITABINE.
Funduscopy: a thorough eye screening in which
the pupil is dilated and the RETINA and the base (fundus) of the
eye are examined with an opthalmoscope for the presence of CYTOMEGALOVIRUS
(CMV) RETINITIS or other opthalmological problems.
Fungal Infection: a range of distinct diseases
caused by fungi (see FUNGUS). CANDIDIASIS, cryptococcosis (see
CRYPTOCOCCUS) and HISTOPLASMOSIS are examples of AIDS-related fungal
infections.
Fungizone: see AMPHOTERICIN B.
Fungus: one of a group of primitive, nonvascular
plants lacking chlorophyll. Among the fungi are mushrooms, yeasts,
and molds. Some fungi are single-celled but differ from BACTERIA
in that they have a distinct nucleus and other cellular structures.
Fusin: see CXCR-4.
Fusion Inhibitor: a class of anti-HIV drugs designed
to prevent HIV from fusing with, and thereby infecting, CD4 CELLS.
Fuzeon: see ENFUVIRTIDE
G
Gag Gene: an HIV GENE that contains the genetic
code for the CAPSID PROTEINS.
Gamma Globulin: see IMMUNOGLOBULIN G.
Ganciclovir (Cytovene): an ANTIVIRAL drug sold
in both INTRAVENOUS (IV) and oral forms. The intravenous form is
FDA-approved as treatment of CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV) RETINITIS in
immune-deficient patients. The oral form is approved for preventing
CMV in patients at risk and for MAINTENANCE THERAPY to control
existing CMV retinitis after an initial course of IV ganciclovir.
As maintenance therapy, oral ganciclovir is not as effective as
IV ganciclovir. Ganciclovir's main SIDE EFFECT is BONE MARROW SUPPRESSION,
leading to low white blood cell and PLATELET counts. Concurrent
use with ZIDOVUDINE (AZT) is not tolerated by some.
Gardnerella: BACTERIA that frequently cause vaginitis.
Gastroenteritis: INFLAMMATION of the stomach
and intestines, which can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract: the organs that
absorb and digest food and eliminate the waste products. The GI
tract includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines,
colon and rectum.
G-CSF: see GRANULOCYTE COLONY STIMULATING FACTOR.
Gemfibrozil (Lopid): a drug used to lower blood
TRIGLYCERIDES. Because gemfibrozil inhibits the CYP3A4 (see CYTOCHROME
P450) pathway, it is not recommended for people on ANTIRETROVIRAL
therapy.
Gene: a sequence of DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID (DNA)
in the CHROMOSOMES that determines the structure of a specific
PROTEIN or ENZYME. Genes regulate the METABOLISM of individual
cells and the development and specialization of body cells and
tissues.
Gene Therapy: any of a number of experimental
treatments in which cell GENES are altered or added to. As it concerns
HIV, gene therapies attempt to provoke new immune activity, try
to render cells resistant to infection or provoke the synthesis
of ENZYMES that destroy viral material within cells.
Genital Herpes: see HERPES VIRUS.
Genital Ulcer Disease (GUD): ulcerative lesions
on the genitals, usually caused by a sexually transmitted condition
such as HERPES VIRUS, syphilis or CHANCROID. The presence of genital
ulcers may increase the risk of transmitting HIV.
Genital Warts: see CONDYLOMA ACUMINATUM.
Genome: an organism's entire genetic code.
Genotype: the genetic makeup of an individual
organism, determined by the sequence of NUCLEOTIDES in its GENES.
See also PHENOTYPE.
Genotypic Assay: a blood test that determines
the genetic sequences of an organism. In HIV, frequently performed
in order to establish whether certain viral MUTATIONS conferring
drug RESISTANCE are present. See also PHENOTYPIC ASSAY.
Germinal Center: one of a series of FOLLICLES
or cavities around the periphery of LYMPH NODES. Germinal centers
are the site of ANTIBODY production and are populated mostly by
B CELLS but include a few T CELLS and MACROPHAGES. As HIV infection
progresses, the germinal centers gradually decay.
GI Tract: see GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT.
GLQ223: see COMPOUND Q.
Glucophage: see METFORMIN.
Glucose: a sugar found in fruits and honey. If
glucose is found in urine, it could be a sign of diabetes.
Glutamine: an AMINO ACID used by the IMMUNE SYSTEM,
muscle tissue and the digestive system. It is used as a supplement
to help increase strength and muscle size.
Glutathione (GSH): a key ANTIOXIDANT compound
required for the smooth functioning of all cells. It is composed
of three AMINO ACIDS: CYSTEINE, GLUTAMINE and GLYCINE.
Besides acting as an antioxidant, glutathione is involved in PROTEIN
synthesis, AMINO ACID transport, and in the recycling of other
ANTIOXIDANTS, such as VITAMIN C.
Glycine: an AMINO ACID used to build PROTEINS.
Glycoprotein: a conjugate molecule made up of
both PROTEIN and CARBOHYDRATE components.
Glycyrrhizin: a substance isolated from the root
of the licorice plant. Used traditionally as an anti-inflammatory
and liver-protecting agent. Possible SIDE EFFECTS include low potassium
levels and high blood pressure.
GM-CSF: see GRANULOCYTE-MACROPHAGE COLONY STIMULATING
FACTOR.
Gonorrhea: a common sexually transmitted bacterial
infection. Symptoms include difficulty urinating, a greenish-yellow
discharge and itching, burning or tenderness around the vagina
or urethra. ANTIBIOTICS, such as ceftriaxone or Bactrim, are often
used as treatment.
gp41: a GLYCOPROTEIN from HIV's outside ENVELOPE
that complexes with GP120 to form the mechanism enabling HIV to
latch onto and enter cells. gp41 uses a three-prong, harpoon-like
mechanism to penetrate cell membranes.
gp120: a GLYCOPROTEIN on HIV's ENVELOPE that
binds to the CD4 molecules and CHEMOKINE RECEPTORS on cells' outside
membrane. Free gp120 in the body may be toxic to cells in its own
right, causing CD4 CELL depletion in the IMMUNE SYSTEM through
APOPTOSIS and neurological damage leading to AIDS DEMENTIA COMPLEX.
gp160: the precursor GLYCOPROTEIN to both of
HIV's outer ENVELOPE PROTEINS: GP41 and GP120. Also refers
to the gp120-gp41 complex as it exists on the outside of mature
HIV.
Grade 1 Adverse Event: a SIDE EFFECT that is
usually transient, requires no special treatment and does not interfere
with a patient's daily activities.
Grade 2 Adverse Event: a SIDEEFFECT that involves
a little inconvenience or concern to the patient and may interfere
with daily activities, but which usually can be controlled with
simple therapeutic measures.
Grade 3 Adverse Event: a SIDE EFFECT that interrupts
the patient's daily activities and which usually requires systemic
drug therapy or other treatment.
Grade 4 Adverse Event: a SIDE EFFECT that is
unacceptable and intolerable, or that is irreversible, or that
causes the patient to be in imminent danger of death.
Granulocyte: a type of white blood cell (LEUKOCYTE)
filled with sacs containing compounds that digest microorganisms.
Granulocytes are part of the innate IMMUNE SYSTEM and have broad-based
activity. They do not respond only to specific ANTIGENS as do B
CELLS and T CELLS. Basophils, EOSINOPHILS and NEUTROPHILS are all
granulocytes.
Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor (G-CSF, Neupogen): a
natural HORMONE that stimulates production of GRANULOCYTES, a type
of white blood cell (LEUKOCYTE). Its synthetic form has been approved
by the FDA for prevention of drug-induced NEUTROPENIA.
Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF): a
HORMONE that stimulates the production of NEUTROPHILS, MONOCYTES
and MACROPHAGES. A synthetic form of GM-CSF (Leukine) is used to
treat NEUTROPENIA.
Granulocytopenia: an abnormally low number of
GRANULOCYTES in the blood, which increases risk of severe bacterial
infection.
Granuloma Inguinale: a sexually transmitted disease,
caused by Donovania granulomatis, that typically affects
the groin, genitals or perianal area. It is usually treated with
ANTIBIOTICS.
Growth Factor: one of many intercellular regulatory
molecules that affects cell proliferation and maturation in various
tissues.
GSH: see GLUTATHIONE.
Guanine: one of the four bases of RNA (which
also includes CYTOSINE, ADENINE and URACIL) and DNA (which also
includes cytosine, adenine and THYMINE).
Guanosine: a NUCLEOSIDE of GUANINE. ABACAVIR
is an ANALOG of guanosine.
GUD: see GENITAL ULCER DISEASE.
GW-433908: see fosamprenavir.
H
HAART: see HIGHLY ACTIVE ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY.
Habitus: the physical characteristics or body
shape of a person.
Half-Life: the amount of time required for half
of a given substance (such as a drug) or half the current population
of a given cell type to be eliminated from the body.
HBC: see HEPATITIS B VIRUS.
HCG: see HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPIN.
HCV: see HEPATITIS C VIRUS.
HDL: see HIGH DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN.
Helper T CELL: see CD4 CELL.
Hemarthrosis: bleeding into a joint.
Hematocrit: percent, by volume, of red blood
cells in a particular amount of blood. The volume of red blood
cells is obtained by separating the cells from other blood components
by means of a centrifuge.
Hematoma: localized swelling that is filled with
blood, caused by a rupture in the wall of a blood vessel. The blood
is usually in an organ or a soft tissue space, such as muscle.
Hematopoietic System: the tissues that produce
the cellular elements of peripheral blood.
Hematuria: red blood cells in the urine.
Hemiparesis: paralysis on one side of the body.
Hemodialysis: a medical procedure that uses a
machine to perform the functions of the kidneys, e.g., filtering
waste products from the bloodstream. It is often a treatment in
end-stage kidney disease.
Hemoglobin: the iron-containing PROTEIN in red
blood cells that carries oxygen through the bloodstream.
Hemolysis: destruction of the red blood cells.
Hemolytic Anemia: ANEMIA caused by the destruction
of red blood cells.
Hemophilia: a genetic disorder that affects mostly
men and prevents normal blood clotting. It is treated by life-long
injections of a synthetic version of the clotting factor lacking
in people with the disease.
Hemoptysis: coughing blood from the lungs, a
possible indication of TUBERCULOSIS.
Hemorrhage: internal bleeding through ruptured
or unruptured blood vessel walls.
Heparin: a chemical that prevents the blood from
clotting.
Hepatic: refers to the liver.
Hepatitis: INFLAMMATION of the liver caused by
MICROBES or chemicals. Often accompanied by JAUNDICE, enlarged
liver, fever, fatigue and nausea and high levels of liver ENZYMES
in the blood.
Hepatitis A infection: a self-limiting VIRUS-induced
liver disease caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A is
acquired through ingesting fecally contaminated water or food or
engaging in sexual practices involving anal contact. Injection
drug users who share unclean needles also are at risk.
Hepatitis B infection: a VIRUS-induced liver
disease that usually lasts no more than six months, but becomes
CHRONIC and life-threatening in 10 percent of the cases. Caused
by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The highly contagious hepatitis
B virus can be transmitted through sexual contact, contaminated
syringes and blood transfusions.
Hepatitis C infection: a VIRUS-induced liver
disease caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is more likely than
hepatitis B to become CHRONIC and lead to liver degeneration (CIRRHOSIS).
Hepatoma: a liver tumor.
Hepatomegaly: liver enlargement.
Hepatotoxicity: TOXICITY affecting the liver.
Herpes Virus: a group of VIRUSES that includes
herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1), herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2), CYTOMEGALOVIRUS
(CMV), EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS (EBV), VARICELLA ZOSTER VIRUS (VZV),
human herpes virus type 6 (HHV-6) and KAPOSI'S SARCOMA (KS) herpes
virus (HHV-8). Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) can cause painful
cold sores or fever blisters on the lips, in the mouth or around
the eyes; herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) is usually transmitted
sexually and generally causes lesions in the anus or the genital
area.
Herpes Zoster: see both SHINGLES and VARICELLA
ZOSTER VIRUS.
HGH: see HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE.
HHV-8 (KSHV, Kaposi's Sarcoma [KS] Herpes Virus): a
HERPES VIRUS thought to trigger the development of KAPOSI'S SARCOMA
lesions. HHV-8's mode of transmission has not been determined,
but may possibly be spread by kissing.
Hickman Catheter®: (HICKMAN is a registered trademark
of C. R. Bard, Inc. and its related
company, BCR, Inc.) a flexible tube that
can be surgically inserted into a large vein and left in place
for a long period of time. Used to administer drugs such as FOSCARNET
and AMPHOTERICIN B, which must be regularly and slowly introduced
into the body but cannot be taken orally.
High Density Lipoprotein: a LIPOPROTEIN that
contains more PROTEIN than fat, often called "good cholesterol."
Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART): anti-HIV
treatment, often including a combination of a PROTEASE INHIBITOR
or NON-NUCLEOSIDE REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE INHIBITOR and two REVERSE
TRANSCRIPTASE INHIBITORS, whose purpose is to reduce VIRAL LOAD
to undetectable levels.
Histoplasmosis: an OPPORTUNISTIC CONDITION caused
by a FUNGUS infection acquired by inhaling spores of the fungus present
in soil or dust. The fungus is widespread only in the central United
States and Latin America. The disease can cause fever, skin lesions,
ANEMIA and respiratory distress. Histoplasmosis outside the lungs
is an AIDS-DEFINING ILLNESS. AMPHOTERICIN B and ITRACONAZOLE are
approved treatments.
HIV: see HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS.
HIV-1: see HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE
1.
HIV-2: see HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE
2.
HIV-Associated Adipose Redistribution Syndrome (HARS): a
general term referring to the variety of body fat composition changes
associated with ANTIRETROVIRAL therapy. The natural history and
cause (or causes) is not clearly understood. See also LIPODYSTROPHY.
HIV Network for Prevention Trials (HIVNET): a
group, funded by The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious
Diseases (NIAID), that conducts domestic and international multi-center
trials to evaluate promising interventions to prevent the transmission
of HIV. Interventions studied include HIV VACCINES, TOPICAL MICROBICIDES,
sexually transmitted disease (STD) treatment, PROPHYLAXIS to prevent
VERTICAL TRANSMISSION, and behavioral risk reduction strategies.
HIV RNA: The genetic material of HIV. VIRAL LOAD
ASSAYS test for HIV RNA and the result is usually reported as the
number of copies per milliliter of plasma.
Hivid: see DIDEOXYCYTIDINE.
HIVIG: an ANTIBODY preparation taken from people
who produce high levels of HIV antibodies. See PASSIVE IMMUNOTHERAPY.
HIVNET: see HIV NETWORK FOR PREVENTION TRIALS.
Hodgkin's Disease: a progressive malignant cancer
of the lymphatic system. Symptoms include swollen LYMPH NODES,
SPLEEN and liver, wasting, weakness, fever, itching, night sweats
and anemia. Treatment includes radiation and CHEMOTHERAPY.
Holistic Medicine: various systems of health
protection and restoration, both traditional and modern, that are
reputedly based on the body's natural healing powers, the various
ways the different tissues affect one another and the influence
of the external environment. See also ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE.
Home Access: see HOME-BASED HIV TESTING KITS.
Home-Based HIV Testing Kits (Confide, Home Access): FDA-approved
over-the-counter test kits available in pharmacies and by mail
order. The kit is not actually used for home testing, but, rather,
for home collection of samples. Purchasers send a small blood sample
to the manufacturer for HIV-testing and then phone anonymously
for their test results.
Homocysteine: a sulfur-containing AMINO ACID.
High levels of homocysteine in the blood have been linked to increased
risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.
Hormone: an active chemical substance formed
in one part of the body and carried in the blood to other parts
of the body where it stimulates or suppresses cell and tissue activity.
Host: an organism that supports the growth of
a parasite or infectious organism.
HPV: see HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS.
HU: see HYDROXYUREA.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG): a HORMONE
secreted during pregnancy to prevent the mother's body from rejecting
the fetus as foreign. Commercial preparations have shown some effect
against KAPOSI'S SARCOMA and HIV.
Human Growth Hormone (HGH): a PEPTIDE HORMONE
secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain. HGH enhances
tissue growth by stimulating LEAN BODY MASS formation. RECOMBINANT,
or genetically engineered, HGH (Serostim, produced by Serono Laboratories)
is approved as a treatment to reverse AIDS-related WASTING SYNDROME.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): a RETROVIRUS
that is believed to cause AIDS. HIV can be transmitted sexually,
by blood-to-blood contact, and perinatally (from mother to child).
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1): an
infectious RETROVIRUS recognized as the agent that induces immune
suppression leading to AIDS.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 (HIV-2): a
VIRUS closely related to HIV-1 that also leads to immune suppression.
HIV-2 is not as virulent as HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE 1
and is epidemic only in West Africa.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): a member of the papova
family of VIRUSES. HPV causes warts or nipple-like protrusions
on the skin. HPV has also been associated with cervical cancer
in women as well as anal cancer in either sex.
Humatin: see PAROMOMYCIN.
Humoral: of or related to elements in the blood
or other BODILY FLUIDS.
Humoral Immunity: the ANTIBODY-producing branch
of the IMMUNE SYSTEM, the result of stimulation of B CELLS and
Th2 T helper (CD4) cells. See TH2 RESPONSE.
Hycamtin: see TOPOTECAN.
Hydrea: see HYDROXYUREA.
Hydroxyurea (Hydrea, HU): an approved oral chemotherapeutic
agent for leukemia and ovarian cancer. It is an experimental anti-HIV
treatment. Hydroxyurea blocks the action of the cellular ENZYME
RIBONUCLEOTIDE REDUCTASE, which helps produce the NUCLEOTIDES needed
for DNA formation. By reducing the amount of functioning nucleotides,
the compound makes intracellular HIV more sensitive to the defective
NUCLEOSIDE ANALOGS. Hydroxyurea has been found to be particularly
synergistic with ddI (DIDANOSINE) in lab tests. ADVERSE EVENTS
primarily involve BONE MARROW SUPPRESSION.
Hyper-: a prefix meaning high, excessive, above
normal.
Hypercholesterolemia: high levels of CHOLESTEROL
in the blood.
Hypergammaglobulinemia: abnormally high blood
levels of IMMUNOGLOBULINS (ANTIBODIES).
Hyperglycemia: high blood sugar.
Hypericin: a compound derived from the herb St.
John's Wort. It is an experimental treatment for HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS
(HPV). Hypericin inhibits the assembly and SHEDDING of VIRUS particles
in infected cells. A synthetic version has been developed. Hypericin's
main SIDE EFFECT is extreme PHOTOSENSITIVITY. Clinical studies
failed to show anti-HIV ACTIVITY at safe doses.
Hyperimmunoglobulinemia: high levels of ANTIBODIES.
Hyperkalemia: high levels of potassium in the
blood.
Hyperlipidemia: high levels of blood LIPIDS.
Hyperplasia: excessive growth of nonmalignant
cells.
Hypersensitivity: an abnormally exaggerated IMMUNE
RESPONSE to an agent, such as a drug or an ANTIGEN.
Hypersusceptibility: when a MUTATION that allows
HIV to resist one drug makes the VIRUS more SUSCEPTIBLE to another
drug.
Hypertension: high blood pressure.
Hyperthermia: an experimental procedure that
involves temporarily heating patients' body core to temperatures
of up to 108 degrees F on the theory that this temperature kills
free HIV and HIV-containing cells. One method for accomplishing
this is by passing patients' blood through an external heater.
This is called extracorporeal whole body hyperthermia. Side effects
include death.
Hypertriglyceridemia: high levels of triglycerides
in the blood.
Hypo-: a prefix meaning low, below normal.
Hypoglycemia: low levels of blood sugar.
Hypokalemia: low levels of potassium in the blood.
Hypoxia: low levels of oxygen in the blood.
I
IC: see INHIBITORY CONCENTRATION.
Idiopathic: a disease or condition with an unknown
cause or origin.
IDU: injection (or INTRAVENOUS) drug user.
IFN: see INTERFERON.
Ig: see IMMUNOGLOBULIN.
IGF: see INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR.
IL-1: see INTERLEUKIN-1.
IL-2: see INTERLEUKIN-2.
IL-4: see INTERLEUKIN-4.
IL-10: see INTERLEUKIN-10.
IL-12: see INTERLEUKIN-12.
IM: see INTRAMUSCULAR.
Immune-Based Therapy: anti-HIV treatment that
aims to modulate, supplement or extend the body's IMMUNE RESPONSES
against HIV infection or other diseases. Also called immunotherapy.
Examples of immunotherapies for HIV include PASSIVE IMMUNOTHERAPY
(PIT), INTERLEUKIN-2 and THERAPEUTIC VACCINES.
Immune Complex: the cluster formed by the combination
of an ANTIGEN and an ANTIBODY.
Immune Deficiency: a breakdown or inability of
certain parts of the IMMUNE SYSTEM to function, thus making a person
susceptible to certain diseases that they would not have contracted
with a healthy immune system. Immune deficiencies may be temporary
or permanent and be triggered by genetic mutation, therapy with
immune-suppressive drugs (as during organ transplants) or an infection
such as HIV.
Immune Modulators: see IMMUNOMODULATOR.
Immune Reconstitution: the natural or therapy-induced
revival of immune function in a body damaged by HIV infection,
particularly after initiation of a highly potent ANTIVIRAL therapy.
Immune Response: the body's reaction to ANTIGENS,
which results in their incapacitation or elimination.
Immune Suppression: see IMMUNOSUPPRESSION.
Immune System: the body's complicated natural
defense against disruption caused by invading MICROBES and cancers.
There are two aspects of the immune system's response to disease: innate
and acquired. The innate part of the response is mobilized very
quickly in response to infection and does not depend on recognizing
specific PROTEINS or ANTIGENS foreign to an individual's normal
tissue. It includes complement, MACROPHAGES, DENDRITIC CELLS and
GRANULOCYTES. The acquired, or learned, immune response arises
when dendritic cells and macrophages present pieces of antigen
to LYMPHOCYTES, which are genetically programmed to recognize very
specific AMINO ACID sequences (EPITOPES) that correspond to a particular
microbe. The ultimate result is the creation of cloned populations
of antibody-producing B CELLS and T CELLS primed to respond to
a unique PATHOGEN.
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP): an immune
disorder that results in a low number of PLATELETS in the blood.
A common disorder in people with HIV, it often resolves as IMMUNE
DEFICIENCY worsens. HIV-related ITP usually does not have serious
consequences. Its cause has not been definitely determined, but
probably has to do with the large number of ANTIBODY-ANTIGEN complexes
sponged up by platelets; antibody-coated platelets are destroyed
in the spleen. Treatment with AZT (ZIDOVUDINE) or an INTRAVENOUS
IMMUNOGLOBULIN (IVIG) frequently alleviates the condition.
Immunization: the process of protecting an individual
against communicable diseases by injecting weakened or killed infectious
organisms or parts of their structure into the body to cause the
IMMUNE SYSTEM to produce ANTIBODIES and activate T CELLS against
the organism without causing the full-blown disease.
Immunocompetent: refers to an IMMUNE SYSTEM capable
of developing a normal protective response when confronted with
invading MICROBES or cancer.
Immunocompromised: refers to an IMMUNE SYSTEM
in which the response to infections and tumors is subnormal.
Immunoglobulin (Ig): a general term for ANTIBODIES,
which bind onto invading organisms, leading to their destruction.
There are five classes: IgA, IgD, IgM, IgE, IgG.
Immunoglobulin A (IgA): an IMMUNOGLOBULIN found
in BODILY FLUIDS such as tears and saliva and in the respiratory,
reproductive, urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. IgA protects
the body's mucosal surfaces from infection.
Immunoglobulin D (IgD): ANTIBODIES, typically
cell surface RECEPTORS, that remove ANTIGENS from the blood.
Immunoglobulin E (IgE): ANTIBODIES that activate
an allergic response to foreign particles.
Immunoglobulin G (IgG): the prominent type of
IMMUNOGLOBULIN existing in the blood. Also called gamma globulin.
Immunomodulator: a drug such as IL-2 that alters,
suppresses or strengthens the body's IMMUNE SYSTEM.
Immunosuppression: weakening of the IMMUNE RESPONSE
that occurs with HIV infection as well as with some ANTIVIRAL or
anticancer treatments.
Immunotherapy: see IMMUNE-BASED THERAPY.
In Utero: refers to events that occur in the
womb during pregnancy. Latin term for "in the uterus."
In Vitro: refers to laboratory experiments conducted
in cell cultures grown in an artificial environment, for example
in a test tube or culture plate. Latin term for "in glass."
In Vivo: refers to studies conducted within humans
or animals; in a living, natural environment. Latin for "in
a living body."
Incidence: the rate at which new cases of a disease
occur, reported in a specified population over a period of time.
See also PREVALENCE.
Inclusion Criteria: conditions that must be met
in order to participate in a CLINICAL TRIAL. For example, inclusion
in a trial could require a certain VIRAL LOAD or CD4 CELL COUNT.
IND: see INVESTIGATIONAL NEW DRUG.
Indication: the purpose or purposes for which
a drug is prescribed. The FDA-approved indications appear on a
printed insert included in the manufacturer's drug packaging.
Indinavir (Crixivan): a PROTEASE INHIBITOR from
Merck. Indinavir must be taken every eight hours on an empty or
mostly empty stomach; fat interferes with its absorption. Small
KIDNEY STONES (NEPHROLITHIASIS) are a possible SIDE EFFECT, and
patients are advised to drink 48 ounces of liquids per day to minimize
the risk of developing stones. Other side effects include nausea,
elevated BILIRUBIN levels, stomach pain, headache and diarrhea.
There are significant DRUG-DRUG INTERACTIONS when indinavir is
combined with other common HIV treatments.
Induction Therapy: the initial, concentrated
phase of a particular treatment. See also MAINTENANCE THERAPY.
IFN-A: see ALPHA INTERFERON.
Inflammation: the body's response to tissue injury
or infection, mainly localized in the affected tissues and adjacent
blood vessels. Blood vessels' permeability is increased, and the
area becomes heavily populated with white blood cells (LEUKOCYTES).
Signs of inflammation are redness, swelling, pain and sometimes
loss of function. Not all of these signs are necessarily present
in any given case.
Informed Consent: the acknowledgement that an
individual understands and agrees with the purpose, procedures,
risks and requirements before participating in an experiment or
beginning a therapy. Patients are provided with an "informed
consent form" which indicates the potential risks, benefits
and alternatives to the therapy in question, as well as their rights
to withdraw consent. If a CLINICAL TRIAL is involved, the trial
PROTOCOL is outlined, including details about what participants
should expect to experience. After reading the informed consent
form, individuals sign it to indicate that they understand its
contents and agree to proceed with therapy under the conditions
it outlines.
Infusion: the process of administering a medication
to an individual by slowly injecting a dilute solution of the compound
into a vein. Infusions are often used when the digestive system
does not absorb appreciable quantities of a drug that is also too
bulky or too toxic to be given by quick injection.
INH: see ISONIAZID.
Inhibitory Concentration (IC): the amount of
drug in the blood needed to suppress the reproduction of a MICROBE
to a certain extent. For example, IC50 for an ANTIRETROVIRAL drug
is the drug concentration needed to reduce HIV activity in cell
culture by half. The higher the IC50 is, the more resistance HIV
is exhibiting to that drug.
Innate Immune Response: see IMMUNE SYSTEM.
Institutional Review Board (IRB): a regulating
committee composed of internal staff, hospital affiliates and community
members that reviews and approves all human trials conducted within
a particular hospital or research center. The IRB ensures that
a trial is conducted in an ethical manner, with proper protection
of human subjects.
Insulin: a HORMONE that controls the amount of
sugar in the blood. A lack of or resistance to insulin leads to
diabetes.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF): a naturally
produced substance that has many of the same effects as GROWTH
FACTOR. Two types of IGF are produced by the body, IGF-1 and IGF-2.
Integrase: the HIV ENZYME that inserts HIV's
GENES into a cell's normal DNA. Integrase operates after REVERSE
TRANSCRIPTASE has created a DNA version of the RNA form of HIV
genes present in VIRUS particles. Drugs intended to block the action
of integrase are in development.
Intent-to-Treat (ITT) Analysis: a type of data
analysis used in CLINICAL TRIALS in which subjects are counted
as treatment failures even if they drop out of the trial prior
to conclusion. Also, all subjects are included in the analysis
as long as they have been randomized. Compare to AS-TREATED ANALYSIS.
Interferon (IFN): one of a number of ANTIVIRAL
PROTEINS that modulates the IMMUNE RESPONSE. Interferon alpha (IFN-A)
is secreted by a virally infected cell and strengthens the defenses
of nearby uninfected cells. A manufactured version of IFN-A (trade
names: Roferon, Intron A) is an FDA-approved treatment
for KAPOSI'S SARCOMA (KS), HEPATITIS B VIRUS and HEPATITIS C VIRUS.
Interferon gamma (IFN-G) is synthesized by IMMUNE SYSTEM cells
(NATURAL KILLER CELLS and CD4 CELLS). It activates MACROPHAGES
and helps orient the immune system to a mode that promotes cellular
immunity. See TH1 RESPONSE.
Interferon Alpha: see ALPHA INTERFERON.
Interferon Gamma: see INTERFERON.
Interim Analysis: an intermediary analysis of
CLINICAL TRIAL data, performed at a point at which enough data
have been gathered to derive preliminary, but not necessarily complete,
conclusions. Interim analyses are performed to see whether continuation
of a clinical trial is warranted.
Interleukin: one of a large group of GLYCOPROTEINS
that acts as CYTOKINES to communicate between LEUKOCYTES. The interleukins
are secreted by and affect many different cells in the IMMUNE SYSTEM.
See also INTERLEUKIN-1, INTERLEUKIN-2, INTERLEUKIN-4, INTERLEUKIN-10
and INTERLEUKIN-12.
Interleukin-1 (IL-1): a CYTOKINE that is released
early in an IMMUNE SYSTEM response by MONOCYTES and MACROPHAGES.
It stimulates T CELL proliferation and PROTEIN synthesis. Another
effect of IL-1 is that it causes fever. See also INTERLEUKIN.
Interleukin-2 (IL-2): a CYTOKINE secreted by
Th1 CD4 CELLS to stimulate CD8 CYTOTOXIC T LYMPHOCYTES. IL-2 also
increases the proliferation and maturation of the CD4 cells themselves.
During HIV infection, IL-2 production gradually declines. Use of
IL-2 therapy is under study as a way to raise CD4 cell counts and
restore immune function. See also INTERLEUKIN.
Interleukin-4 (IL-4): a CYTOKINE secreted by
Th2 CD4 CELLS that promotes ANTIBODY production by stimulating
B CELLS to proliferate and mature. See also INTERLEUKIN.
Interleukin-10 (IL-10): a CYTOKINE released by
immune cells. IL-10 reduces elevated levels of HIV-stimulating
cytokines (see PROINFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES, TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR
ALPHA) and the inflammatory activity common to infection. See also
INTERLEUKIN.
Interleukin-12 (IL-12): a CYTOKINE released by
MACROPHAGES in response to infection that promotes the activation
of CELL-MEDIATED IMMUNITY. Specifically, IL-12 triggers the maturation
of Th1 CD4 CELLS, specific CYTOTOXIC T LYMPHOCYTE responses and
an increase in the activity of NATURAL KILLER CELLS. IL-12 is under
study as an IMMUNOTHERAPY in HIV infection. See also INTERLEUKIN.
International Unit (IU): a measurement of the
mass of certain VITAMINS and drugs based on their expected biological
effects (thus, they vary from compound to compound). IUs are determined
by international agreement.
Intolerant: unable to take a drug because of
an ADVERSE EVENT or laboratory TOXICITY.
Intralesional: injected directly into a lesion.
Intramuscular (IM): injected directly into a
muscle.
Intraocular: injected into the eye.
Intraocular Implant (Vitrasert): Chiron Vision's
eye implant which is FDA-approved for the treatment of CYTOMEGALOVIRUS
(CMV) RETINITIS. The implant is a five to eight month time-release
device containing GANCICLOVIR that is placed inside the eye during
a short surgical procedure. The implant is more effective at treating
CMV retinitis than systemic therapies because it is able to deliver
medication directly to the site of the infection, bypassing the
BLOOD-RETINA BARRIER. Possible SIDE EFFECTS include temporary blurring
of vision after the operation and RETINAL DETACHMENTS. The implant
cannot prevent CMV in other parts of the body or in the other eye.
Intrapartum: during birth.
Intrathecal: injected directly into the membrane
surrounding the spinal canal.
Intravenous (IV): injected directly into a vein.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): a sterile
solution of concentrated ANTIBODIES extracted from healthy people.
IVIG is used to prevent bacterial infections in patients with low
or inappropriate antibody production. It is also used to restore
low PLATELET counts (see IMMUNE THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA).
Intravitreal: injected into the eye's VITREOUS
HUMOR between the lens and the RETINA.
Intron A: see ALPHA INTERFERON.
Investigational New Drug (IND): status given
an EXPERIMENTAL DRUG after the FDA approves an application to test
it in people.
Invirase: see SAQUINAVIR.
IRB: see INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD.
Isolate: a genetically homogeneous HIV clone
with distinguishing characteristics and extracted from a single
source.
Isoniazid (INH): an orally administered drug
used to treat or prevent TUBERCULOSIS infection. SIDE EFFECTS include
liver INFLAMMATION and PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY.
-itis: a suffix that indicates INFLAMMATION,
usually due to infection, of the root word. For example, "vaginitis" means
inflammation of the vagina.
ITP: see IMMUNE THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA.
Itraconazole (Sporanox): an oral antifungal drug
used for a number of AIDS-related fungal infections. Itraconazole
concentrates in the skin and is particularly effective for skin
conditions. Possible SIDE EFFECTS include digestive upset, rashes
and headaches. A liquid form or suspension is FDA-approved for
oral and esophageal CANDIDIASIS.
ITT Analysis: see INTENT-TO-TREAT ANALYSIS.
IU: see INTERNATIONAL UNIT.
IV: see INTRAVENOUS.
IVIG: see INTRAVENOUS IMMUNOGLOBULIN.
J
Jaundice: yellow pigmentation of the skin and
whites of the eyes caused by elevated blood levels of BILIRUBIN.
The condition is associated with liver or gallbladder disease or
excessive destruction of red blood cells. The protease inhibitor
atazanavir can cause jaundice as a side effect.
JC Virus: see PROGRESSIVE MULTIFOCAL LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY.
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