HIV is actually two species of viruses two species of Lentivirus that in time cause the immunodeficiency syndrome known as AIDS. There are currently several drugs used to combat this virus.
However, due to its nature, when multiplying its form and genetic material can change through mutations. Due to this, the antiviral agents used in the treatment may no longer be effective. Thus, the HIV infection has become drug-resistant.
The resistance to one drug can cause cross resistance. This phenomenon causes the virus to be resistant not only to one drug, but to the whole class the medicine belongs to.
If no treatment is effective AIDS will develop in the patient. The HIV virus reproduces by using cells belonging to the body's immune system such as helper T cells (specifically CD4+ T cells), macrophages, and dendritic cells. By destroying these cells, the infection gradually destroys the body's immune system. When the immune system's cell count is less than 200
, the patient is considered to have developed the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
When AIDS occurs, the body will no longer have an effective defense system. Thus, several infections will occur and the patient is at risk. It is these secondary infections and diseases that can lead to the death of the individual. However, the cause is the HIV virus.