HIV

A lentivirus (a subgroup of retrovirus) that is the etiologic agent of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV primarily infects vital cells in the human immune system, such as helper T cells (specifically CD4+ T cells), macrophages, and dendritic cells. Infection leads to progressive depletion of the immune system, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections and specific malignancies. Transmission occurs via percutaneous or mucosal exposure to infectious bodily fluids or through vertical transmission.

Transmission electron micrograph (TEM) of HIV virions, demonstrating the characteristic dense, cone-shaped nucleocapsid cores surrounded by a viral lipid envelope.

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