PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
PSC Miscellaneous Prelims 2018
Answer
Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome
Explanation
The full form of AIDS is Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. It is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). By damaging the immune system, HIV interferes with the body's ability to fight infection and disease. AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the body's immune system is badly damaged because of the virus.
Key Points
- > AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
- > It is caused by the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus).
- > It spreads through unprotected sex, contaminated blood transfusions, and from mother to child.
- > The primary screening test for HIV is the ELISA test.
- > The Western Blot test is used as a confirmatory test for HIV.
- > World AIDS Day is observed globally on December 1st every year.
- > HIV is a type of virus called a retrovirus (contains RNA).
Additional Information
Diseases and Diagnostic Tests
| Disease Name | Diagnostic Test | Pathogen Nature |
|---|---|---|
| AIDS | ELISA / Western Blot | Virus (HIV) |
| Typhoid | Widal Test | Bacteria (Salmonella) |
| Tuberculosis (TB) | Mantoux Test / DOTS | Bacteria (Mycobacterium) |
| Dengue | Tourniquet Test | Virus |
| COVID-19 | RT-PCR | Virus (SARS-CoV-2) |
Memory Tips
- Word Breakdown: 'Acquired' means you get it after birth, 'Immunodeficiency' means weakness of the immune system, and 'Syndrome' refers to a group of symptoms.