Disease Prevention

Glossary - A to Z

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Abstinence: Not using drugs or having sexual intercourse (oral, anal, or vaginal sex).

Acute: Reaching a crisis quickly; very sharp or severe.

Acyclovir: A drug used to treat herpes and sometimes used as an adjunct to AZT.

AIDS: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome: AIDS is the late stage of an infection caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV. AIDS is a complex disease characterized by severe damage to the body's natural immune system. A person with AIDS becomes susceptible to unusual opportunistic diseases and cancers that are not ordinarily a threat to people with normal immune systems. A person who is infected with HIV is said to have AIDS when the T-Cell or CD4 count falls below 200 or when diagnosed with one of more than two dozen specific serious illnesses.

AIDS Dementia Complex-ADC: AIDS Dementia Complex is the term used for the loss of intellectual capacity, including the loss of memory, judgment, or concentration. HIV infection alone may cause dementia, as can several other AIDS-related conditions. ADC is relatively common in HIV infection, but usually only in late stages.

AIDS Related Complex (ARC): Term previously used to describe people who had symptoms of HIV but had not yet developed AIDS; generally considered an outdated term.

Alternative therapies: Non-medical approaches that some people believe to be effective in treating HIV infection; these include acupuncture, visualization, crystals, nutritional therapy, and macrobiotics.

Ambiguous test results: (Also called Indeterminate Test Results) Findings that are neither clearly negative nor clearly positive; used here to refer to HIV antibody test results in which the ELISA shows the presence of HIV antibodies but the Western blot does not. Can result as a fluke or because a person in the window period is sero-converting.

Amphotericin B: An antibiotic which is used for many fungal infections including candidiasis (thrush) and cryptococcosis.

Anal sex (also anal intercourse): Inserting the penis into the anus of the sexual partner.
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Anemia: Reduced number of red cells in the blood. Red blood cells are responsible for delivering oxygen to all parts of the body. When the reduction is severe, the result is fatigue. Anemia can be caused by HIV infection itself, by an opportunistic infection, or by several of the drugs commonly taken by people with HIV.

Anonymous testing: Testing done with no identifying information recorded; only the person tested can obtain the test results. This kind of testing is not available in Iowa due to changes in the law July 1, 1998.

Anorexia: Prolonged loss of appetite that leads to significant weight loss.

Antibiotics: Drugs made from natural substances that inhibit the growth of microbes.

Antibody: A protein produced by the B-lymphocytes that combines with foreign substances or microorganisms [such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites] that invade the body and help destroy them. Once the body has an antibody to a particular substance the cells remember what happened and the person usually is immune to that specific substance or microorganism in the future. Although antibodies usually defend the body against invading disease agents, the HIV antibody gives no such protection.

Antibody-negative test result: Here, the findings of a test that detects no signs of antibodies to HIV; either the person does not have HIV, or the person has become infected with HIV too recently to have detectable antibodies. It may take 3-6 months after infection to develop antibody.

Antibody-positive test result: The findings of a test in which antibodies to HIV are detected in the blood; the person is infected with HIV if both the ELISA and Western blot tests show positive results.

Antigen: A substance or microorganism that the body's immune system recognizes as foreign and attempts to destroy.

Antigen test: A blood test that looks for HIV itself rather than for antibodies. Such a test can detect HIV in people who were recently infected and as yet have no detectable antibodies.

Antiretroviral: A drug used to treat an infection with a retrovirus. HIV is a retrovirus. AZT, ddI, and ddC are examples of antiretrovirals used to treat HIV infection.

Antiviral: A substance or process which destroys a virus or suppresses its ability to reproduce.

Anus: The ring of muscle at the opening of the rectum that controls release of waste (feces) from the body.
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ARC, or AIDS-Related Complex: A term not officially defined or recognized by the CDC which has been used to describe a variety of symptoms and signs found in some persons infected with HIV. These may include recurrent fevers, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, and/or fungus infection of the mouth and throat. Now commonly described as symptomatic HIV infection. ARC is considered an outdated term.

Asymptomatic: Without symptoms, the absence of symptoms. The asymptomatic person feels healthy. HIV has a long asymptomatic period, averaging 10 years.

Autologous blood donation: Blood people donate for their own later use, usually in elective surgery. Some people donate their own blood to reduce their chances of infection from receiving blood.

AZT: (Zidovudine) An antiretroviral drug used to slow the progression of HIV disease by keeping the virus from multiplying. It will not cure or prevent HIV infection. It will not prevent the spread of HIV from one person to another.

B Lymphocytes or B-Cells: A type of white blood cells, called lymphocytes, responsible for producing antibodies against disease agents. B lymphocytes are distinct from T lymphocytes, which are also part of the immune system, but which work against a different group of microbes using different mechanisms.

Bacteria: Microscopic organisms that can cause disease.

Bacterial Infections: Health problems caused by bacteria--single-cell organisms that lack any nucleus. These tiny organisms may cause illness in the gastrointestinal tract, the lungs, the heart, the brain and spinal cord, the urinary tract, the sinuses, and almost any other body organ. Bacterial infections greatly reduce the immune system's ability to fight off other serious infections. Most bacterial infections can respond to antibiotic treatment.

Bacterial Vaginosis: A bacterial infection caused by a combination of bacteria including Gardnerella Vaginalis.

Biopsy: A procedure in which a small sample of some tissue or organ is removed for laboratory testing.

Bisexual: Being romantically attracted to or having sex with both men and women.

Bloodborne disease: infections whose disease agents are carried in the bloodstream (HIV infection hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, for example).

Blood-clotting factors: Substances in the blood that cause it to thicken and change from a liquid to a solid; used to treat hemophilia.
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Blood components: The parts of the blood, including formed elements (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets) and liquid (plasma), that contain proteins used to make clotting factors.

Blood Count: Blood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. All three kinds of cells can be counted under a microscope. People with HIV infection commonly have low red counts, low while counts, and low platelet counts. A blood count is a relatively simple, inexpensive, and standard test. A low white blood count, less than 200 T-cells is AIDS defining.

Blood testing: Taking a small sample of a person's blood, which is then examined to determine blood characteristics and to detect disease agents or evidence of infection. Doctors order blood tests to detect specific diseases. A specific blood test or the Orasure is required to test for HIV.

Blood-to-blood contact: The mixing together of blood from two (or more) people. The primary ways of spreading HIV through blood-to-blood contact are shared needles or syringes; blood transfusions, receipt of blood components or clotting factors, or organ transplants (rare since 1985); and transmission from mother to child during birth.

Body Fluids: Term used for a number of fluids manufactured within the body. Fluids infected with HIV include semen, blood, vaginal secretions and breast milk.

Bone Marrow: The tissue in the central portion of many bones where blood is manufactured. Bone marrow can be withdrawn by placing a needle in the hip bone and then analyzed to detect abnormalities in the production of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Bronchoscopy: A visual examination of the trachea and lungs with flexible fiber optics.

Brain Lesion: Any abnormality in the brain tissue.

Buyers' Clubs: Groups that make underground drugs (drugs not approved by the Food and Drug- Administration and thus not available as licensed drugs in the United States) available to people with HIV infection. The advantage is that it offers the person the opportunity to take drugs that might require long periods of testing before becoming widely available. The disadvantage is that the drugs are untested and could be toxic or useless.

Cancer: The uncontrolled growth of the cells of the tissues of any organ in the body. Cancers can destroy the tissues surrounding them and can spread to different parts of the body.
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Candidiasis: An infection caused by candida, a yeast like fungi. Commonly referred to as a yeast or fungal infection. Yeast or fungal infections occur on the skin or mucous membrane. Common sites include the mouth, esophagus and vagina. Recurrent vaginal yeast infections may be an early warning sign of HIV. People with HIV may experience Thrush (oral candidiasis) or esophageal candidiasis.

Cardiovascular disease: Disease affecting the heart and blood vessels; often, the blood vessels become gradually clogged with fatty substances.

Casual contact: Ordinary social contact-kissing on the cheek; shaking hands; using the same telephone, toilet, or swimming pool; or working in the same office. Casual contact does not spread HIV.

Casual transmission: Transmitting (spreading) an infection or disease through casual contact. HIV does not spread in this way.

Catheter: A semi-permanently installed venous line used to inject fluids into the body. Or a Foley catheter may be inserted into the bladder to drain urine.

CD4 Cells (T-Cells): CD4 cells are a type of white blood cell important to the body's immune system. HIV infection results in a loss of CD4 cells, reducing the immune system's ability to fight infection. Also called T4 cells and CD4+ lymphocytes. They get their name because T-cells have a CD4 receptor site, where HIV attaches.

CD4 Count: CD4 count is a measurement of CD4 cells. Usually, as HIV infection progresses, the number of CD4 cells drops. Healthy people without HIV infection usually have about 1000 CD4 cells in a cubic milliliter of blood. People with AIDS have counts of less than 200.

Cell: The smallest independent unit of life that can perform all life functions.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC: Federal health agency that is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services located in Atlanta, Georgia. It has three responsibilities: to serve as an epidemiological resource for state and local health departments; to investigate epidemics; and to keep track of contagious diseases and other diseases important to public health. The CDC is the storehouse for all reported cases of AIDS in the United States. It provides guidelines for disease prevention and gives advice on safety for health care providers. It is responsible for funding state and local agencies that counsel and test people for HIV.

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Central Nervous System, CNS: Composed of the brain, spinal cord, and its coverings (meninges).

Chlamydia: A common bacterial STD that remains silent 80% of the time in women and 25% of the time in men. Problems that can result from contracted chlamydia are infertility and ectopic (tubal) pregnancy. Chlamydia can be treated with a specific antibiotic. Symptoms, if present, include pain and burning when urinating and discharge. If the infection is left untreated later symptoms include abdominal and testicular pain which warns of a serious (potentially life-threatening) condition.

Chronic: A disease which is : continuing, persistent, lingering, prolonged or recurring.

Cervix: A female body part; the lower part of the uterus, extending into the vagina.

CMV, or Cytomegalovirus: A virus commonly found in people without HIV infection. Usually the immune system holds CMV in check, and it remains dormant in the body without causing any serious disease. With a severely weakened immune system CMV may cause serious infection. The site of infection can be in the eye, lung, liver, gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, brain, or widespread in many of these areas. CMV is difficult to treat. Retinitis--swelling of the retina--occurs in about 10% of people with AIDS and is the most common form of CMV infection. If not treated early, it can cause blindness.

Coccidioidomycosis: An uncommon fungal infection, often concentrated in the lungs. Symptoms may be a dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath, weight loss, and fever.

Communicable disease: A disease that can be transmitted.

Condom: A sheath, made of latex, polyurethane, or lamb intestine, that fits over the erect penis; when used correctly and consistently, latex condoms have been shown to greatly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

Confidential testing: Confidential HIV testing is provided at the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health. It is provided with the assurance that tests results will be known only by the client, the counselor, the laboratory and in the case of a positive - the Iowa Department of Public Health.

Confidentiality: Keeping information private or secret.
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Connective tissue: The type of tissue that supports and binds together other tissues and organs; frequently the site of Kaposi's sarcoma lesions in people with AIDS.

Contact tracing: The process of letting sexual and needle-sharing partners of an HIV/STD infected person know they may be at risk of having HIV or another STD. Also called Partner notification.

Contaminated needles: Needles that have been used by someone with HIV or Hepatitis and making HIV transmission possible if the needles are shared.

Crack: A form of cocaine that is smoked.

Crack house: A place where crack is bought and used.

Cryptococcosis: A fungal infection, frequently causing meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It is very difficult to cure.

Cryptosporidiosis: An infection caused by a parasite found in the intestines of animals which may be transmitted to humans by direct contact with an infected animal or by ingestion of contaminated food or water. The parasite grows in the intestines and causes diarrhea, dehydration and malnutrition.

Cytokine: A chemical messenger secreted by immune cells to regulate immune activity.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection: A viral infection that may occur without any symptoms and may result in mild flu-like symptoms; a common opportunistic infection among people with AIDS, it often causes loss of sight.

Cunnilingus: Oral sex; mouth-to-vagina sex.

ddI (Didanosine): The second antiretroviral drug approved by the FDA, known as didanosine or dideoxyinosine, which is used alone or in combination with AZT to try to slow the progression of HIV disease. HIV is a retrovirus.

ddC: A drug also known as dideoxycytidine is another antiretroviral drug used to slow the progression of HIV disease.

Defense cell: A type of white blood cell that attacks foreign materials.

Dementia: Loss of mental capacity that affects a person's ability to function.

Dental Dam: A flat piece of latex that is held in place over the vulva (female genital area) during oral sex on the female. A dry male condom may be slit and used as a substitute. Or, cellophane can be used.

Designated blood donation: Blood that a family member or friend donates for a specific person's use.
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Developed Immunity: When someone's body is able to develop protection against an infection, even though that person has been exposed to a virus or other disease agent; scientists consider a developed immunity to HIV unlikely.

Disease agent: A virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite that carries infection.

Disinfectant: A chemical that destroys disease agents; for example, liquid chlorine bleach can be used to clean needles and syringes so that they become less likely to spread HIV if they are shared.

Donor: Someone who gives blood for another's use. Many people are blood donors for the American Red Cross.

Dormant virus: An inactive virus.

Drug Trials: Also called clinical trials, enabling researchers to determine proper dosing, benefits, and risks of a drug or treatment.

Dry kiss: One that does not involve mouth-to-mouth or open-mouth contact. (Social kiss, kiss on the cheek.)

Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing.

Ejaculate: To eject semen; the semen released by ejaculation during orgasm.

Ejaculation: The spontaneous discharge of semen during orgasm.

EIA: See ELISA.

ELISA Test: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The first of two standard blood tests done to detect antibodies to HIV. The test is extremely sensitive but not very specific. ELISA is used as a screening test, and those who are positive have a second test on the same blood sample called a Western Blot. When the Western Blot test is combined with ELISA it is over 99% accurate in both sensitivity and specificity.

Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, usually caused by the HIV infection itself or opportunistic illnesses such as toxoplasmosis or lymphoma.

Endoscopy: A diagnostic procedure in which an instrument is passed through the mouth or rectum to examine an internal organ or to obtain a biopsy.

Enteritis: Inflammation of the small intestine, usually with diarrhea.

Epidemic: A rapidly spreading illness or disease in a population.

Esophagitis: An inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that carries food to the stomach.

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Experimental drug: A drug that is in the process of being scientifically tested but is not yet approved or licensed by the Food and Drug Administration for general use.

Exposure (to HIV): When someone is unprotected from the kind of contact (sexual or blood-to-blood) that spreads HIV. A condition or behavior that results in exposure to blood, semen, vaginal secretions or breast milk.

False-negative test: Used here to mean an antibody test for HIV that shows negative results even though the blood sample contains the virus; uncommon, usually found only in people recently infected with HIV who as yet have no detectable antibodies.

Fatigue: A state of physical exhaustion and lack of energy. HIV infection can cause fatigue, although this usually occurs in more advanced stages of the disease.

FDA, Food and Drug Administration: United States government agency responsible for licensing drugs and regulating their development.

Feces: Bodily waste discharged through the anus.

Fellatio: Oral sex; mouth-to-penis sex.

Female Condom: "Reality" is the brand name of a female condom that is made of polyurethane. It is a thinner material than latex and is inserted by the female into the vagina like a tampon. The inner ring goes over the cervical OS (opening) to hold the condom in place. While the outer ring stays outside the vagina. This condom, in theory, should be as effective as the male condom, however it has not been tested as extensively.

Floaters: Small fuzzy spots or chain-shaped patterns that drift slowly across a person's vision.

Fluconazole: Drug used to treat fungal infections. Brand name: Diflucan.

Food and Drug Administration: A government agency with several regulatory functions, including testing and approving new drugs before they can be marketed to the public.

French kiss: See Open-mouth kiss. Top of Page

Fungus: Microscopic disease agent(s) including yeasts and molds.

Gancyclovir: A drug used to treat cytomegalovirus infection and occasionally for infections caused by herpes simplex and other viruses.

Gastroenteritis: Inflammation or infection of the lining of the stomach and intestines, often due to infection with bacteria or viruses.

Gene: The basic unit that controls heredity; genes determine how people function and also what traits they pass on to their children.

Germ: A virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite that carries infection

Genital contact: Contact between the sexual organs of two people or contact of one person with another's genitals.

Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that may result in green or yellow tinged discharge and pain/burning while urinating. If left untreated gonorrhea may result in Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or Epididymitis, causing abdominal or testicular pain. Untreated gonorrhea can cause serious infections and is a major cause of infertility.

Gingivitis: A swelling, bleeding, or soreness of the gums that can be especially severe in people with HIV infection.

Hemoglobin: The part of red blood cells that carries oxygen to cells and carbon dioxide away from other cells throughout the body.

Hemolysis: Destruction of red blood cells.

Hemophilia: An inherited blood disorder that prevents blood from clotting. People with hemophilia have internal bleeding that requires injections of clotting factors obtained from human blood donors. Many people with hemophilia were infected with HIV before the blood was tested.

Hepatic: Pertaining to the liver.
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Hepatitis: An inflammation or infection of the liver. The most familiar forms are caused by viruses. Many people have no symptoms and are unaware of having hepatitis. Or symptoms may include fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice--yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes. It can be transmitted by sexual contact or blood-to-blood contact. A vaccine is available against Hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B: A viral infection that affects the liver and is transmitted through blood-to-blood and sexual contact. There is a vaccine to prevent Hepatitis B.

Hepatitis C: A viral infection that affects the liver and is transmitted primarily through blood to blood contact and sometimes through sex. There is not a vaccine to prevent Hepatitis C.

Herpes: Short for herpes simplex viruses, which cause fluid-filled blisters around the mouth or genitals. HIV makes people more susceptible to Herpes and vice versa. Herpes can be severe if a person also is infected with HIV.

Herpes Simplex Virus: Herpes Simplex Virus type one (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus type two (HSV-2) can occur in anyone but can be especially troublesome in HIV-infected people. HSV-1 causes cold sores or blisters, usually on the mouth or the face; HSV-2 causes similar sores, most often in the genital or anal area. If the immune system is severely weakened, the herpes virus can also cause ulcers elsewhere, including the esophagus and colon, or inflammation of the brain.

Herpes Varicella-Zoster Virus: Causes shingles and chicken pox. It causes small, very painful blisters that follow nerve pathways, usually along one side of the body. The rash can spread to the lungs or the central nervous system.

Heterosexual: Being romantically attracted to or having sex with people of the opposite sex.

Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection. Symptoms include fever, swollen glands, cough, shortness of breath, weight loss, weakness, and anemia.

HIV: (Human Immunodeficiency virus) The retrovirus that causes AIDS; HIV weakens several body systems and destroys the body's immune system, making it easier for life threatening cancers or opportunistic infections to invade the body.

HIV-1: The strain of HIV most common in the U.S. Top of Page

HIV status: Testing positive or negative for antibodies to the human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS.

Homosexual: Being romantically attracted to or having sex with people of the same sex; gay.

Hospice: A program offering compassionate care in the home or in a home-like setting. Hospice provides care and comfort to patients and their families involved with a life-threatening illness, giving attention to the physical, spiritual, and psychosocial concerns from an interdisciplinary approach.

Household contact: Ordinary social contact among members of a household.

HTLV-III: (Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus, type III) An earlier term for human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS.

Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV): The retrovirus that causes AIDS; HIV weakens several body systems and destroys the body's immune system, making it easier for life threatening cancers or opportunistic infections to invade the body. HIV-1 is the strain of HIV most common in the U.S.

Human Papilloma virus (HPV): Causes genital warts which are transmitted through sexual contact. It has been linked to certain tumors, including cervical cancer.

Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus, type III: An earlier term for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS.

Immune: Protected from disease.

Immune System: The whole system made up of cells and proteins in the body which fights infectious diseases viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. that invade the body and probably cancer too. HIV affects primarily one type of cell in the immune system, the T lymphocyte, called a CD4 cell.

Immunization: Triggering the body's self-defense against disease, such as mumps, rubella, and measles.

Immunoglobulin: Class of antibodies that act as protection against disease agents; common treatment for children with AIDS.

Immunosuppression: Reduced performance of the body's immune system.

Incidence: The number or rate of new cases of a disease over a period of time.

Incubation: The period from the point of infection to the onset of symptoms of a disease. Ten years is the average incubation period (asymptomatic) from HIV to AIDS diagnosis.

Incubation Period: The time interval between infection with a microbe and the first symptoms of disease. An unusual feature of HIV infection is that the first symptoms of a weakened immune system usually do not occur until several years after the infection takes place.
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Indeterminate: This result means the HIV antibody test was not fully reactive. It could mean the individual is sero-converting (going from negative to positive) or it might be a fluke.

Infection: Invasion of the body by a disease agent.

Infectious disease: A disease that is caused by or can be transmitted by an agent; not all diseases are highly contagious or easily communicable to other people-for example, HIV is highly infectious, but it is not easily or casually transmitted.

Injection-drug use: Injecting drugs by needle into the body. Intravenous (IV) drug use is one form of injection-drug use. Skin popping -- injecting into the skin is another.

Intercourse: (Sex) Genital contact between individuals; contact with vagina, penis, or anus.

Isoniazid: A drug used to treat tuberculosis.

IV-drug use: (Intravenous drug use) Injecting drugs into ones veins.

Kaposi's Sarcoma, KS: A cancerous tumor of blood vessels. About 20% of all people with AIDS develop Kaposi's sarcoma. The symptoms appear as red or purple nodules or spots, a quarter of an inch or an inch in diameter, anywhere on the skin, mucous membrane and lymph nodes. The nodules grow in size and number. They can occur on internal organs such as the lung, brain, and gastrointestinal tract. Some nodules are painful. This disease can be treated with radiation or cancer chemotherapy.

Latency: The period between the introduction of a germ and the first symptoms. A microbe is in the body but is not actively reproducing, not invading any tissues, and not causing symptoms. They remain latent until something tilts the balance in the immune system and permits them to become active.

Latex: Rubber: This non-porous material is highly effective protection against HIV and other STD's. According to the Center for Disease Control Protection, a latex condom is 98% effective against HIV when used consistently (every time) and correctly.

LAV: (Lymphadenopathy-associated virus) An earlier name for HIV.

Lesbian: A woman who is attracted to or has sex with women. Top of Page

Lesion: An abnormal change in the tissue or in the structure of an organ or body part due to injury or disease; sore.

Leukopenia: A low number of while blood cells that fight infection. In people with HIV disease the leukocyte count is usually low.

Living Will: A written declaration in which the person requests exactly which types of treatment be used/not be used to delay death, etc. Unlike a standard will, which deals with property, a living will applies to medical treatment. The document becomes effective only after a person has a terminal condition and becomes incompetent.

Lubricant: A substance used during sex to reduce friction; using water-based lubricants will make breakage of condoms less likely.

Lymph Glands: Clumps of tissue distributed widely throughout the body groin, neck, armpits which manufacture lymph, a clear fluid containing lymphocytes, or white blood cells (including CD4 cells) that are a part of the immune system. The lymphatic system is a widespread network, like the blood circulation system, of channels that carry lymph.

Lymphadenopathy-associated virus (LAV): An earlier name for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

Lymphadenopathy: Enlarged or swollen lymph glands.

Lymphocytes: Certain types of white blood cells called T-cells and B-cells; key to the function of the immune system.

Lymphoma: A cancer that starts in the lymph nodes. The two major types of lymphoma are Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Lymphoma of the brain is considered an AIDS defining illness unless HIV infection is ruled out.

Macrophage: A type of white blood cell that surrounds and devours infected cells, disease agents, and dead material. A monocyte is a young macrophage.

Mandatory testing: Required testing of a population or group of people; traditionally used only for diseases that have a cure and effective treatments available. Mandatory testing is thought to be an inefficient strategy for HIV prevention.

Mass testing: Testing of large segments of a population. Some have suggested this as a prevention strategy. However, large numbers of people would be in the "window period" and therefore the testing would be inaccurate.
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Masturbation: Massaging one's own genitals, often to the point of orgasm.

Medicaid: (Also called Title 19) A federal-state health insurance program that pays certain medical expenses for people whose income falls below the poverty level as set by each state. In Iowa Medicaid is administered by the county offices of the Department of Human Services.

Medicare: A federal health insurance program that pays certain medical expenses for people who are disabled, over 65, or suffering from chronic kidney disease.

Meningitis: Infection and inflammation of the membranes (meninges) that cover the brain and spinal cord.

Menstrual flow: The fluid composed of blood, secretions, and tissue that are discharged during menstruation.

Menstruation: The monthly shedding of the uterus lining during the menstrual period.

Microbes: Organisms so small they require a microscope to be seen. They can be bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. Microbes cause infectious diseases. HIV is a microbe, specifically a virus.

Monocyte: Young macrophage, a type of white blood cell that surrounds and devours infected cells, disease agents, and dead material.

Monogamous: Having sex with only one partner. Long term monogamy is an HIV/STD prevention strategy referring to two people who are committed to having sex only with each other over a long period of time, and who neither have HIV/STDs nor inject drugs. Serial (short term) monogamy, referring to two people who are having sex only with each other over a short period of time, is not effective in preventing HIV.

Motor function: The ability to move; people with AIDS often become less able to perform certain tasks or movements because they have become weak or HIV has affected their nervous systems.

Mucous membrane: A lining or membrane of all body passages that have an outside opening; both the lining of the mouth and the lining of the vagina, for example, are mucous membranes. The glands in the mucous membrane produce mucus.

Mutating virus: A virus that changes. HIV is a mutating virus.

Mutual masturbation: Massaging a partner's genitals, often to the point of orgasm. See Masturbation.

Mycobacteria: Mycobacteria are slender, nonmotile gram positive rods that do not produce spores or capsules. Bacteria that cause a variety of serious infections in persons with HIV and to which persons with HIV are especially susceptible. Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium Leprae.
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Mycobacterium Avium Complex, MAC: A serious opportunistic infection which causes mal-absorbtion of food and symptoms including night sweats, high fevers, cough, weight loss, general fatigue, and diarrhea. MAC most often affects people with fewer than 50 T-cells.

National Institutes of Health (NIH): A federal agency of the U.S. Public Health Service that includes 13 institutes; NIH supports and does biomedical and health research, trains scientists and doctors, and writes and publishes scientific and medical reports.

Natural Membrane Condom: Made of a porous material which is not effective against HIV or other STDs. May be used to prevent pregnancy.

Nebulizer: A machine that turns liquids into mists that can be inhaled into the lungs. A nebulizer has been used to inhale pentamidine to prevent the disease PCP.

Needle stick (also needle stab, needle jab): A needle puncture of the skin, often accidental; although infrequent, it is a possible mode of HIV, Hepatitis B and C transmission to health care workers.

Negative HIV test results: A test that detects no antibodies to HIV; a negative test result can mean that someone is not infected but also can mean that the person was too recently infected to have detectable antibodies. It may take 3-6 months after exposure to HIV to have a positive Antibody test.

Neuropathy: An. illness involving the nerves with symptoms of muscle weakness or pain and tingling, especially in feet and legs. This can result from HIV itself or can be a side effect of drugs--especially ddI and ddC.

Neutropenia: A shortage of neutrophils, the most common type of white blood cells. Low neutrophil counts make infections more likely.

Night Sweats: Episodes of sweating during the night. In HIV-Infected people, night sweats, fever, and chills warn of HIV disease progression or other infection.

NIH, National Institute of Health: A federal scientific research organization in Bethesda, Maryland. The NIH is the world's largest research organization. It provides funding for about a third of all biomedical research, including that related to HIV infection

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: A cancer that causes rapid, abnormal growth among lymphocytes--cells that are an important part of the body's immune system.

Nonoxynol-9: A chemical (spermicide) used in some contraceptive creams, foams, and jellies that kill sperm and viruses. Nonoxynol-9 provides some protection against gonorrhea and chlamydia, but none against HIV.
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Nystatin: A drug used to treat candidiasis, including thrush.

Ob/Gyn -- Obstetrics/Gynecology: Obstetrics is concerning the management of women during childbirth. Gynecology is the study of diseases of the female, particularly of the reproductive organs, including the breasts.

Open-mouth kiss: A kiss involving tongue-to-tongue contact.

Opportunistic Infections: A variety of infections that are caused by microorganisms ordinarily found in the environment, but which do not cause disease except in persons with damaged immune systems. People with HIV/AIDS are susceptible to opportunistic infections.

Opportunistic Tumors: Tumors occurring primarily in people with weakened immune systems. Kaposi's sarcoma and certain lymphomas are the primary opportunistic tumors affecting people with HIV.

Oral Mucosal Transudate: The fluid that comes out of ones cheek that is used to test for antibodies to HIV. This fluid is used in the Orasure HIV Antibody test.

Oral sex (oral intercourse): Contact of the mouth or tongue with a partner's penis, vagina, or anus.

Orasure: Oral test that uses oral mucosal transudate, a fluid that comes out of ones cheek, to test for HIV antibody. The test has demonstrated 99% effectiveness and is exactly the same test done on the blood.

Organ bank: A place where donated body organs are stored before being transplanted.

Organism: A living being.

Parasite: An organism that relies upon another organism for survival.

Parenteral transmission (of HIV): The injection of HIV into the body, most commonly through HIV-contaminated needles.
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Partner notification: The process of letting sexual and needle-sharing partners of an HIV/STD infected person know they may be at risk of having HIV or another STD. Also called Contact tracing.

Penis: The male sexual organ.

Pentamidine: A drug that has been used to treat Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.

Perinatal transmission (of HIV): Passing HIV to an infant before or during birth.

Placenta: The blood-filled organ that connects the fetus to the mother's body by the umbilical cord; the source of nutrition for the fetus.

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia: A form of pneumonia caused by a parasite that rarely affects people with fully functioning immune systems; the leading cause of death in people with AIDS.

Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs. People with AIDS can get pneumonia or a specific pneumonia known as PCP.

Polymerase chain reaction test: A test that can detect HIV by looking for the genetic information of the virus; this test can find the virus even if it is present only in very small amounts or is hidden inside the white blood cells.

Positive HIV test result: Finding the presence of HIV antibodies; the person tested is infected with HIV and able to infect others.

Postponing sex: Deciding not to have sex for a period of time, this is an HIV/STD prevention strategy.

Prevalence: Total number of cases of a disease in a population over a period of time.

Prevention: Behaviors that help people protect themselves from HIV infection; a variety of strategies to stop the spread of HIV, including the most effective ways and also ways to reduce the risk of infection.
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Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy, PML: A brain disorder occurring in about 4% of the people with AIDS and most likely when CD4 counts are less than 50. Early warning signs include headaches, forgetfulness, double vision, and difficulty walking or speaking. Later on, loss of vision, seizures, and paralysis may occur.

Prophylactic: (Condom) A sheath, made of latex, polyurethane, or lamb intestine, that fits over the erect penis; when used correctly and consistently, latex condoms have been shown to greatly reduce the risk of HIV transmission..

Prophylaxis: A treatment to prevent a disease.

PWA: Person with AIDS. Also, PLWA - person living with AIDS.

Quarantine: Isolation of a person with a contagious disease.

Reality Condom: "Reality" is the brand name of a female condom that is made of polyurethane. It is a thinner material than latex and is inserted by the female into the vagina like a tampon. The inner ring goes over the cervical OS (opening) to hold the condom in place. While the outer ring stays outside the vagina. This condom, in theory, should be as effective as the male condom, however it has not been tested as extensively.

Rectum: The last portion of the digestive tract, just above the anus.

Respite care: Short-term care of chronically ill people provided to give their caregivers some time off.

Rifampin: A drug used to treat tuberculosis.

Retinitis: An inflammation of the retina, the layer of cells at the back of the eye that collects and sends images to the brain. Retinitis usually causes some loss of vision.

Retrovirus: A virus that contains RNA, and not DNA, as its genetic material. Retroviruses produce an analogue, a kind of mirror image, of their RNA by using an enzyme known as reverse transcriptase. What results is DNA that incorporates itself into the genetic material of the cell that the virus has invaded. Scientists hope that by interfering with this reverse transcriptase they can prevent the retrovirus from replicating itself in the host cell. HIV is a retrovirus.

Risk behavior: Activities that put people at increased risk of getting HIV or another STD.

Risk Factor: A condition or behavior that makes it likely that a person with the risk factor will develop a particular disease.
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Risk group: For statistical purposes, a collection of people thought to share a common feature that puts them at increased risk of contracting a disease.

Risk reduction (ways to reduce the risk): Strategies that "reduce the risk" make the possibility of HIV transmission less likely but do not completely eliminate it; for example, using latex condoms, monogamy, and cleaning needles.

Rough sex: Sexual acts that involve tissue injury.

Rubella: A communicable viral disease which causes rash, fever, and swollen glands. Congenital (present at birth) rubella frequently causes birth defects such as growth retardation, ey, cardiac, ear and nerve damage and bone, skin, liver and spleen disorders. A vaccine to prevent rubella is routinely administered to infants and children in the United States.

Safer Sex: A term referring to sexual activities that reduce but do not eliminate the risk of HIV transmission. Sexual practices that involve no exchange of blood, semen, or vaginal fluid.

Saliva: The fluid produced in the mouth. Not a risk for HIV.

Seizure: A convulsion or uncontrolled movements of the arms and legs accompanied by unconsciousness and inability to control urine or stool.

Semen: Whitish fluid containing sperm, white blood cells, and fluid, which are ejaculated from the penis during orgasm. This fluid contains HIV in an infected person.

Seroconversion: The change from an absence of HIV antibodies to the presence of HIV antibodies. The appearance of antibodies to a virus after the virus has entered the body. The immune system usually takes several days or weeks to recognize the foreign substance and produce antibodies to it. When the result of a test for antibodies in the blood serum converts from negative to positive it is called seroconversion. In HIV disease, seroconversion takes place within 3-6 months after the initial infection.

Sex (also intercourse): Genital contact between individuals; contact with vagina, penis, or anus. Oral sex, vaginal sex, or anal sex are examples of penetrative sex.

Sexual orientation: The attraction people feel for or the erotic relationship they develop with others of their own sex, of the opposite sex, or of both sexes.

Sexually transmitted disease (STD): A disease that spreads during oral, vaginal, or anal sex; or contact with one of the following fluids from an infected person: blood, semen, vaginal fluid, or breast milk. Some examples include chlamydia, HPV, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and HIV.

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Shingles: An inflammation of nerve endings brought about by the reactivation of Herpes Zoster, the same virus that causes chicken pox; an opportunistic infection common to people with AIDS.

Shooting galleries: Places where drugs are sold and used, particularly injection drugs.

Shots: (Immunization) Triggering the body's self-defense against disease, such as mumps, rubella, and measles.

Snorting (cocaine): Inhaling (cocaine).

Social kiss: Dry kiss.

Speedball: Heroin mixed with amphetamines (speed) or cocaine.

Spend down: To qualify for Medicaid by having medical bills that reduce one's income below the poverty level.

Sperm bank: A storage facility for sperm before it is used in artificial insemination.

Spermicide: A chemical usually found in the form of a foam, cream, or jelly that kills sperm on contact (for example, nonoxynol-9). Spermicide may reduce the risk of STDs when used with a condom, but has not been shown to act on HIV. Spermicide helps prevent pregnancy.

Spinal Tap: Also called a lumbar puncture, a procedure for obtaining cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It involves inserting a needle into the middle of the back and into the meninges. The fluid is then analyzed for evidence of infection of the brain or spinal cord.

SSI: Supplemental Security Income; a welfare program under Social Security for people who are disabled, elderly, or blind; some benefits or temporary benefits under this program may be available to people with HIV.

SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance; a form of federal insurance; payment is related to the amount of money a person has paid into the Social Security system.

Standard Precautions: Formerly known as universal precautions. The use of gloves, masks, gowns as necessary to prevent the transmission of pathogens (germs) from patient to patient, patient to health care worker, or health care worker to patient.

STD: (Sexually transmitted disease) A disease that spreads during oral, vaginal, or anal sex; or contact with one of the following fluids from an infected person: blood, semen, vaginal fluid, or breast milk. Some examples include chlamydia, HPV, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and HIV.
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Stigma: A disfiguring mark, whether visible or not, that sets people who have it apart from others.

Syndrome: A group of related problems or symptoms. AIDS is a syndrome.

Syphilis: A sexually transmitted disease that causes a painless sore at the site of infection, if untreated may lead to heart damage, brain damage, and blindness.

T-cell: (T-helper cell or T-lymphocyte) A type of white blood cell essential to the body's immune system; helps regulate the immune system and control B-cell and macrophage functions. Three fundamentally different types of T-cells are recognized: helper, killer, and suppressor.

Test sensitivity: The likelihood that infected people will test positive.

Test specificity: The likelihood that uninfected people will test negative.

T-helper cell: (T-cell or T-lymphocyte) A type of white blood cell essential to the body's immune system; helps regulate the immune system and control B-cell and macrophage functions. Three fundamentally different types of T-cells are recognized: helper, killer, and suppressor.

Thrombocytopenia: A low count of platelets, the cells in the blood which facilitate clotting. Low counts are common in people with HIV disease. When the count is very low, bleeding problems may occur. People with HIV infection have Thrombocytopenia because their bodies produce antibodies against their own platelets.

Thrush: (Candidiasis) A yeast infection of the mouth, tongue, and throat. The symptoms are white patches along the gums, on the inside of the cheeks, or on the tongue. It is extremely common in people with HIV infection.

T-lymphocyte: (T-cell or T-helpher cell) A type of white blood cell essential to the body's immune system; helps regulate the immune system and control B-cell and macrophage functions. Three fundamentally different types of T-cells are recognized: helper, killer, and suppressor.

Toxic: Used here to describe some treatments for opportunistic infections or HIV infection itself that may cause harmful side effects in some people.

Toxoplasmosis: A parasite infection which is a major cause of neurological problems in people with HIV disease. The parasite is commonly found in cat feces and in undercooked meat. Almost all cases of toxoplasmosis in HIV-infected individuals occur in people with fewer than 100 CD4 cells. Most toxoplasmosis infections occur in the brain, but infection may also occur in the heart, liver, colon, lungs, or other organs.

Transfusion (blood): The transfer of one person's blood to another person. Many people were infected with HIV before the blood was tested for HIV. Now the risk for HIV from a single transfusion is 1 in 500,000.
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Transmission: The spread of HIV or a STD from an infected person to one who is not.

Transplant: The transfer of an organ or tissue from one person to another.

Trichomoniasis, Trich: A sexually transmitted disease caused by Trichomonas Vaginas causing discharge from the vagina that is yellow and smells bad. Most men have no early symptoms.

Tuberculosis, TB: A contagious disease or infection, usually in the lungs, that is far more frequent in people with HIV infection than in the general population. The bacterium that causes TB can either be dormant or active. Once treatment has started, the likelihood that it will be transmitted to others is reduced. In some areas, forms of TB occur that resist treatment, even with multiple drugs, thus the term Multi-drug Resistant TB. Once a treatment is started, patients must complete the full treatment to ensure that TB does not recur.

Urine: Body waste excreted by the kidneys as fluid.

Vaccine: A substance made from synthesized or killed viruses or bacteria that helps to protect people against a particular disease.

Vagina: The passageway in the female extending from the vulva to the cervix. The vagina is penetrated in vaginal sex.

Vaginal fluid: Fluid that provides moistness and lubrication in the vagina; vaginal fluid of an HIV-infected woman may contain HIV.

Vaginal sex (also vaginal intercourse): Penetration of the vagina by the penis or other objects, such as sex toys.

Viral Hepatitis: Viral hepatitis is caused by several types of virus: A, B, C, D, and E. The viruses are spread from person to person through a variety of means, each specific to the type of virus. Ther viruses in general attack the liver causing varying degrees of illness.

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Virus: A tiny microbe that is not a complete cell and cannot survive or reproduce unless it lives in a cell. Viruses often destroy the host cell. They cause diseases that can be passed from one person to another. Viruses are much smaller than bacteria and cannot be treated with antibiotics. Examples of viruses include: HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes, and HPV (genital warts). To date there has never been a cure for a virus.

Wasting Syndrome: An extreme weight loss of ten percent or more of body weight with no explanation other than HIV infection. Contributing factors include malabsorption due to opportunistic infections or diarrhea and a lack of adequate food intake.

Western blot: A blood test that can detect antibodies to HIV; always used to confirm ELISA results.

Wet kiss: (Open-mouth kiss) A kiss involving tongue-to-tongue contact.

White blood cell: A type of blood cell whose primary function is to fight infection; white blood cells include T-cells, B-cells, macrophages, and monocytes.

Works: (drug-injection equipment) Needles, syringes, and other equipment used to "cook" or prepare and inject street drugs.

Zidovudine, AZT: The first antiretroviral drug used to slow the progression of HIV disease by keeping the virus from multiplying. It will not cure or prevent HIV infection. It will not prevent the spread of HIV from one person to another. AZT has been shown to lower the risk of vertical transmission (from HIV + mom to child) from 25% to 8%. AZT should now be used only in combination with other therapies.

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