Final answer:
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system and causes AIDS, a severe immunodeficiency. Without treatment, HIV progresses to AIDS, leading to serious health complications and potential fatality. Medical interventions can delay the progression from HIV to AIDS.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the retrovirus responsible for causing Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV attacks cells of the immune system, particularly the helper T cells, leading to a progressive weakening of the immune system. This can result in an increased vulnerability to opportunistic infections, which are infections that capitalize on a weakened immune system.
When a person's immune system is severely damaged by the HIV virus, they are considered to have AIDS, which is the final stage of HIV infection. Most HIV-infected individuals will eventually develop AIDS if the virus is left untreated, leading to a range of complications and can result in death. However, with appropriate medical treatment, the progression of HIV to AIDS can be delayed significantly, improving the quality of life and life expectancy for those infected.