AIDS 101 GLOSSARY
by Victor Hernandez
This is a comprehensive glossary of terms as they relate to the human body, 
treatments, medications and common medical terms that come up in the area of HIV 
and AIDS. This supplement to the AIDS 101 that you have just read includes terms 
commonly used as well as those less commonly used. In addition, treatments and 
medications that are used by the medical community, in research or as 
alternative treatments are mentioned. You must keep in mind that HIV/AIDS is an 
evolving disease. Information, approaches and strategies for treatments vary as 
effectiveness is noted. I have included a section for your own notes to modify 
this glossary for your own use and to share with others. Any treatment or 
medication mentioned is not an endorsement.
566C80A Treatment possibility for PCP and toxoplasmosis. Developed by 
Burroughs-Wellcome, it shows promise of actually killing pneumocystis rather 
than merely controlling its growth. See also PCP.
8-METHOXYPSORALEN See PHOTOPHORESIS.
ABCD Liposome encapsulated Amphotericin B made by Liposome Technology, Inc. to 
help treat cryptococcal meningitis. See also CRYPTOCOCCAL MENINGITIS. 
ABDOMINAL Pertaining to the abdomen, the area of the body between the thorax 
(chest) and pelvis.
ABSOLUTE CD4 COUNT (Also called a T4 COUNT) Actual number of "helper" 
T-lymphocytes in a cubic millimeter of blood. The CD4 count declines as HIV 
infection progresses, and it is frequently used to monitor the extent of immune 
suppression in HIV infected people. See also CD4, HIV, and SYNTHETIC CD4.
ACCRUAL The process of signing people up to participate in drug trials. See also 
APPROVAL PROCESS.
ACDDC (AIDS Clinical Drug Development Committee) A committee of mostly academic 
and government doctors who review candidate drugs submitted by researchers and 
drug companies. From available data they assign a low medium or high research 
priority.
ACEMANNAN See CARRISYN.
ACID-LABILE
ALPHA INTERFERON A subclass of alpha interferon which is destroyed by acid. It 
has been shown to be produced at high levels by white blood cells which are 
infected with HIV. It has been implicated as a predictor of AIDS and is 
associated with a greater likelihood of developing opportunistic infections. See 
also ALPHA INTERFERON.
ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME A manifestation of infection with HIV 
characterized by the presence of one or more diseases or conditions as defined 
by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). These diseases occur after HIV has 
severely damaged the immune system leaving the affected person susceptible to 
unusual infections and malignancies. See also OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS, CDC, and 
IMMUNE SYSTEM.
ACROMEGALY Chronic disease caused by hypersecretion of the pituitary growth 
hormone and characterized by the enlargement of many parts of the skeleton 
especially the nose, ears, jaws, fingers, and toes.
ACTG (AIDS Clinical Trial Group) System of cooperative medical institutions 
conducting NIAID's clinical AIDS drug trials. See also NIAID and ACTU.
ACTIVE IMMUNITY Immunity produced by the body in response to stimulation by a 
disease-causing organism or other agent.
ACTU (AIDS Clinical Testing Unit) Sites where the NIAID's AIDS drugs' clinical 
trials are performed. See also NIAID.
ACUTE Rapid in onset, severe, life-threatening; the opposite of persistent or 
long-term.
ACYCLOVIR Burroughs-Wellcome-trade name Zovirax. An antiviral drug used in the 
treatment of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV 1), herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV 2), and 
herpes zoster. Acyclovir is being studied in combination with AZT as a treatment 
for HIV. See also ZOVIRAX, FOSCARNET, DESCICLOVIR, HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 1, and 
HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 2.
ADAMHA (Alcohol, Drug Abuse and Mental Health Administration) Charged with 
dealing with issues around addiction and mental health in the United States. See 
also PHS and NIH.
ADENOPATHY Enlargement of glands especially in the lymph nodes.
ADJUVANT Any substance which enhances the immune-stimulating properties of an 
antigen or the pharmacological effect of a drug.
ADMINISTRATION Refers to how a drug or therapy is introduced into the body, for 
example intravenously or orally.
ADVERSE REACTION Patients in trials may have toxic reactions to the experimental 
medicines. Toxic reactions are usually listed in the protocol and the patient's 
Informed Consent, however, some reactions may never have been reported before. 
Any amount of toxicity must be reported within 24 hours by telephone to the 
sponsor of the trial, who must then tell the FDA. A clinical trial can be 
stopped because of adverse reaction. See also FDA.
AEROSOL-PENTAMIDINE ISETHIONATE Drug currently owned by Fujisawa (trade name 
NebuPent) which is used as preventative therapy for PCP, it was given orphan 
drug status by the FDA to encourage its manufacture, it has since passed the 
200,000 patient point for which the Orphan Drug Law was intended. Fisons 
Corporation has challenged the monopoly by submitting a New Drug Application for 
their version, which is called Pnumopent. Because Fujisawa's version is so 
expensive, imported aerosol pentamidine is widely available through buyers' 
clubs at much lower cost. See also FDA, ORPHAN DRUG ACT, NDA, and PCP.
AEROSOLIZED Administered as a fine spray or mist by a nebulizer and inhaled.
AGAMMAGLOBULINEMIA Nearly total absence of immunoglobulins or antibodies. 
AIDS CLINICAL DRUG DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE See ACDDC.
AIDS See ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME.
AIDS-RELATED COMPLEX (ARC) A term not officially used or recognized by the CDC 
which has been used to describe a variety of symptoms and sign found in some 
persons infected with HIV. These may include recurrent fevers, unexplained 
weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, and/or fungal infection of the mouth and 
throat. also referred to as symptomatic HIV infection. See also SYMPTOMATIC HIV 
INFECTION, HIV, and CDC. 
AL-721 Drug from the Eithigen Corp. was studied as an anti-retroviral, but no 
clinical or laboratory evidence of benefit was observed 
ALKALOIDS A large group of organic bases.
ALANINE
AMINOTRANSFERASE See SGPT.
ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE (Commonly called ALKPHOS) Enzyme that is normally present 
in certain cells within the liver and bone. When cells are destroyed in those 
tissues, more of this enzyme leaks into the blood. This higher level of Alkaline 
Phosphatase indicates either liver damage or bone disease. A second test must 
determine whether liver or bone is involved.
ALKALINE Basic; having a pH level of less than 7.
ALKPHOS See ALKALINE PHOSPHATE.
ALLERGEN Any substance that causes an allergy.
ALLERGY An inappropriate immune system response to a harmless substance. 
ALOPECIA Transient hair loss resulting from certain therapies such as 
chemotherapy.
ALPHA INTERFERON A protein, one of 3 major classes of interferons that the body 
produces in response to infections. In people who are HIV positive, elevated 
interferon levels are regarded as an indication of disease progression. 
Genetically engineered alpha interferon has been approved as a treatment for 
Kaposi's Sarcoma. Marketed by several different firms, Interferon-Alpha 2b is 
sold by Schering Plough under the name Intron A, Interferon-Alpha 2a is sold by 
Hoffman-La Roche as
Roferon-A. See also KAPOSI'S SARCOMA and HIV.
ALT See SGPT.
ALUM Odorless, colorless, crystalline substance.
ALVEOLAR Pertaining to the alveolar sac, the site of gas exchange in the lungs. 
See also ALVEOLAR SAC.
ALVEOLAR SAC The smallest end unit of the lung where oxygenation of the blood 
occurs and where carbon dioxide is removed from the blood to be exhaled. Each 
sac is about about .25 mm in size and there are approximately 1.5 million in 
each lung.
AMEBIASES Infection with amebas especially Entameba histolyica.
AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR AIDS RESEARCH See AmFAR.
AmFAR American Foundation for AIDS Research. A non-profit organization founded 
by Dr. Mathilde Krim to fund AIDS research.
AMINO ACID Any one of twenty or more organic acids, some of which are the 
building for proteins and are necessary for metabolism and growth. There are 
four amino acids: Adenine, Cytosine, Thymine, and Guanine. See also NUCLEOSIDE 
ANALOG.
AMINOSALICYLIC ACID (Brand Name ASACOL) An aspirin derivative, which may act as 
a treatment for non-specific colonic inflammation in persons with HIV.
AMPLIGEN A drug which has mismatched double stranded RNA, an antiviral and 
immunomodulator may slow or block the progression of LAS or ARC into full blown 
AIDS. See also ARC, LAS, IMMUNOMODULATOR, RNA, and AIDS.
AMPULES Small, sealed glass containers used to hold solutions for hypodermic 
injection.
AMYLASE A protein which is secreted by salivary glands and the pancreas to aid 
digestion of food, especially starches. Increased amylase levels may indicate 
pancreatitis. See also PANCREATITIS.
ANAMNESTIC RESPONSE Heightened immunological reaction elicited by a second or 
subsequent exposure to a particular microorganism or antigen.
ANAPHYLACTIC SHOCK Life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by the 
swelling of body tissues (including the throat) and a sudden drop in blood 
pressure.
ANCOBON See FLUCYTOXINE.
ANEMIA Abnormally low number of red blood cells.
ANERGY Lack of response to the injection of a certain foreign substance. This 
may indicate the inability of the immune system to mount a normal allergic 
response.
ANOREXIA Prolonged loss of appetite. Young women with wasting syndrome due to 
HIV-infection are often diagnosed as anorexic. See also WASTING SYNDROME. 
ANSAMYCIN See RIFABUTIN.
ANTAGONIST A drug that prevents or reverses the action of another drug. 
ANTI- Prefix which means "against".
ANTI-IDIOTYPE Antibody that recognizes and binds to another antibody.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY Substance which counteracts or suppresses inflammation. There 
are 2 types: steroidal agents, such as cortisone, and non-steroidal agents, such 
as aspirin. See also CORTICOSTEROID. 
ANTI-NEOPLASTIC Inhibiting or preventing the proliferation of tumor cells. 
ANTIBACTERIAL A substance which stops or checks the growth of bacteria.
ANTIBIOTIC A natural or synthetic substance that inhibits the growth of or 
destroys micro-organisms, typically bacteria, e.g. Penicillin, Pentamidine.
ANTIBODY Protein molecules produced by B-lymphocytes) in response to an antigen. 
See also B-LYMPHOCYTES.
ANTIBODY-DEPENDANT CELLULAR CYTOTOXICITY See ANTIGEN DEPENDANT CELL MEDIATED.
ANTICOAGULANT Substance that delays or counteracts blood clotting.
ANTIFOLATE Agent that inhibits intracellular production of folinic acid. 
ANTIFUNGAL Substance which kills or inhibits the growth of a fungus.
ANTIGEN DEPENDANT CELL MEDIATED CYTOTOXICITY (or ANTIBODY-DEPENDANT CELLULAR 
CYTOTOXICITY) A condition by which the T-cell destroys a cell coated with an 
antibody. This is one of the two major mechanisms the immune system uses to 
destroy tumor cells.
ANTIGEN SPECIFIC Refers to antibodies that are "matched" to certain antigens. 
See also ANTIGEN, ANTI-IDIOTYPE, & IDIOTYPES.
ANTIGEN Agent that stimulates an immune response. The immune system recognizes 
these substances as being foreign, and produces antibodies to fight them. This 
antigen/antibody response is an important part of immunity.
ANTIGENEMIA Presence of detectable amounts of antigens in the blood.
ANTIMICROBIAL THERAPY Medicines taken to cure infections. Antibiotics (against 
bacteria) and antifungals (against fungi) are examples of antimicrobial 
therapies. See also ANTIBIOTICS and ANTIFUNGALS.
ANTIOXIDANT Substance that prevents oxidation. These are often used in fats, 
oils, and foods to keep them from becoming rancid ("going bad"). 
ANTIPROLIFERATIVE Substance which stops cells from growing.
ANTIPROTOZOAL Substance which kills or inhibits the growth of protozoa, for 
example: toxoplasmosis and cryptosporidiosis which are caused by protozoan 
infections, could be treated with such drugs. See also TOXOPLASMOSIS and 
CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS. ANTIRETROVIRAL Substance which stops or suppresses the 
activity of a retrovirus like HIV. See also RETROVIRUS and HIV. 
ANTITOXINS Antibodies that recognize and inactivate toxins produced by certain 
bacteria, plants, or animals. See also TOXIN.
ANTIVIRAL Substance that attacks a virus, stops and suppresses viral activity, 
for example: acyclovir or Foscarnet. See also ACYCLOVIR, FOSCARNET, and VIRUS.
APPROVAL PROCESS (For drugs in the US) according to law and FDA regulations 
involves 6 steps:
    Preclinical--laboratory and animal studies 
    Company files for Investigational New Drug (IND) status with the FDA 
    Clinical trials begin: 
1. Phase I: testing for safety
2. Phase II: testing for efficacy
3. Phase III: extensive clinical trials
4. Company files New Drug Application (NDA) with FDA for permission to market 
the drug
5. FDA review of application
6. FDA approval/rejection of application. Even after the NDA is approved, the 
company is required to periodically submit reports to the FDA, including adverse 
reactions data, production and quality control information and sometimes 
extended monitoring. See NDA, PHASE I, PHASE II, and PHASE III. (See Page 35 & 
36).
Note: Women of "child-bearing potential" (anyone who is not surgically 
sterilized or post-menopausal) are kept out of Phase I, Phase II and even Phase 
III trials to protect drug companies from "potential legal liability" for a 
"potential fetus."
ARC See AIDS-RELATED COMPLEX.
AS-101 (Immunomodulator made by Wyeth-Ayerst) Chemically-synthesized ammonium 
salt of tellurium which has been shown to enhance production of white blood 
cells and interleukin-2 and is currently in clinical trials for treatment of ARC 
and
AIDS.
ASACOL See AMINOSALICYLIC ACID.
ASPARTATE
AMINOTRANSFERASE See SGOT.
ASPERGILLOSIS Fungal infection of the lung which can spread through the blood to 
other organs. Symptoms include fever, chills, difficulty breathing, and coughing 
up blood. If the infection reaches the brain, it may cause dementia. See also 
DEMENTIA.
ASSAY Test to detect the presence and concentration of a drug or substance in 
the blood, other body fluids, or body tissues. See also ELISA.
AST See SGOT.
ASTHMA Spasm or sudden temporary narrowing of the airways in the lungs which 
results in wheezing and shortness of breath. In different people, asthma may be 
triggered by hay fever, food or other allergies, exercise, emotional stress, or 
a particular drug.
ASYMPTOMATIC SEROPOSITIVE Individual who has been infected with HIV but shows no 
apparent symptoms. HIV positive individuals can still infect others with HIV 
even though they are asymptomatic.
ATAXIA
ATTENUATED VIRUS Loss of muscle control leading to jerky or uncoordinated 
movements. An altered virus with a reduced ability to infect or produce disease. 
Attenuated virus are sometimes used as vaccines. See SALK HIV IMMUNOGEN.
ATROPHY A wasting or decrease in size of tissues.
AUTOANTIBODY Antibody that reacts against a person's own tissues.
AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE A disease caused by an immune system attack on self.
AUTOIMMUNE RESPONSE A response caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking 
the body's own tissues.
AUTOLOGOUS Derived from the same organism or one of its parts.
AVEROL Drug developed from sea sponges, a German-Japanese research team at the 
University of Mainz has suggested it may be effective against AIDS. The 
Frankfort based pharmaceutical Marz, which holds the patent on Averol, is 
developing an injectable solution.
AXION Long structure in the nerve cell that acts a pathway for nerve impulses.
AZDU (Azidouridine) A nucleoside analog made by Triton Biosciences. The compound 
appears to suppress HIV, and to interfere with the ability of the virus to 
replicate inside human cells. It may also counteract HIV and delay progression 
to AIDS. AZDU seems to produce few toxic side effects, but it hasn't made it 
beyond Phase I trials because of lack of interest from Triton.
AZIDODIDE-OXYTHYMIDINE See AZT.
AZIDOURIDINE See AZDU.
AZITHROMYCIN See AZM.
AZM A macrolide antibiotic (Pfizer--trade name Zithromax) under study for the 
treatment and prophylaxis of toxoplasmic encephalitis, treatment of 
mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) and treatment of cryptosporidiosis. Available 
under compassionate use for persons who have failed standard therapy for 
toxoplasmosis. See also MACROLIDES, MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM COMPLEX, COMPASSIONATE 
USE, and CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS.
AZT INTOLERANT Someone who has severe side effects when taking AZT and cannot 
continue taking the drug.
B2M See BETA 2 MICROGLOBULIN.
AZT (Azidodideoxythymidine--also known as Zidovudine) The Burroughs-Wellcome 
trade name is Retrovir. AZT is a nucleoside analog and was the first anti-HIV 
drug approved for use in the US. There are indications that some people can only 
tolerate AZT for 18 months to 2 years. It is highly toxic, especially in the 
higher doses originally prescribed. Recently, the FDA broadened the indications 
for use of the drug to include all adults with HIV and a T-helper count of 500 
or less. Recent studies suggest the optimal dose may be 300mg rather than the 
usual 600mg per day. See also HIV, AZT INTOLERANT, and NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG.
B-CELL A white blood cell that produces antibodies to create immunity against 
certain infectious agents. See also IMMUNE SYSTEM.
B-CELLS See B-LYMPHOCYTES.
B-LYMPHOCYTES White blood cells which produce antibodies. they clone themselves 
when T-Cells signal the presence of alien substances in the body. Some B-Cells 
remain to fight the viral or bacterial invader while other signal more immune 
cells to the site. See also T-CELL, IMMUNE SYSTEM, BACTERIA, and VIRUS.
BACTERIA Plural of bacterium.
BACTERICIDAL Capable of killing bacteria.
BACTERIOSTATIC Capable of inhibiting reproduction of bacteria.
BACTERIAL PNEUMONIA An opportunistic infection which affects many IDUs and which 
is life-threatening but is not part of the CDC definition of AIDS.
BACTERIUM Microscopic organism composed of a single cell. Many bacteria can 
cause disease in people.
BACTRIM (also known as Septra, it's chemical name is 
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole.) Synthetic antibacterial combination product used 
in the treatment of PCP, orally it is used as a PCP prophylaxis. See also 
ANTIBACTERIAL, PCP, and BACTERIUM.
BASELINE A known value with later measurements can be compared. For example: 
baseline temperature, baseline hemoglobin level, etc. 
BASOPHIL Type of white blood cell, also called a granular leukocyte, filled with 
granules of toxic chemicals that can digest microorganisms. Basophils are 
responsible for the symptoms of allergies. See also WHITE BLOOD CELLS, IMMUNE 
SYSTEM, TOXIC, and MICROORGANISM.
BENZODIAZEPHINE General name for a certain group of tranquilizers, such as 
valium. See also VALIUM.
BETA 2 MICROGLOBULIN (B2M) Protein tightly bound to the surface of many 
nucleated cells, particularly those of the immune system. Elevated B2M levels 
occur in a variety of diseases & cancers. While elevated B2M is not specific to 
HIV, there is a correlation
between this marker & the progression of HIV disease. See also IMMUNE SYSTEM and 
HIV.
BETASERON Recombinant form of Human Interferon Beta made by Triton Biosciences 
designed to treat HIV infection and Kaposi's Sarcoma. See also HIV, KAPOSI'S 
SARCOMA, and RECOMBINANT.
BG8962 Recombinant soluble human T4, made by Biogen. See also RECOMBINANT. 
BILE Enzyme secreted by the liver. See also ENZYME. 
BILIRUBIN Bile pigment measurement that indicates the health of the liver.
BIOAVAILIBILITY Rate and extent to which a substance is absorbed & circulated in 
the body.
BIOLOGICS (Biological Products) Medicines made by living organisms, including 
humans. These products include gamma globulin and vaccines. See also GAMMA 
GLOBULIN.
BIOLOGICAL RESPONSE MODIFIERS (BRMs) Substances, either natural or synthesized, 
that boost, direct, or restore normal immune defenses. BRMs include interferons, 
interleukins, thymus hormones, and monoclonal antibodies. See also IMMUNE 
SYSTEM, INTERLEUKINS, THYMUS, and MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES.
BIOPSY Removal and laboratory examination of tissue from a living body. 
BIOTECHNOLOGY Use of living organisms or their products to make or modify a 
substance.
BLASTOMYCOSIS Infectious disease caused by a fungus, usually in the lungs, which 
can spread to the skin, bone or other tissues.
BLOOD- CEREBROSPINAL FLUID BARRIER Barrier between the blood and the fluid 
surrounding the brain and spinal column. It only allows some substances to pass 
from the blood to the fluid. This barrier presents a potential problem in 
treating HIV infection. 
BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER Barrier between the blood and the brain. It only allows some 
substances to pass from the blood to the brain. This barrier presents a problem 
in treating HIV infection because treatments must cross the barrier to stop HIV 
infection in the brain, thus the drugs for HIV infection must be composed of 
molecules small enough to cross the barrier. 
BONE MARROW Soft tissue found in the hollow center of long bones in which blood 
cells are produced.
BONE MARROW SUPPRESSION A condition that can be caused by certain drugs. It 
leads to a decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which 
can lead to frequent bleeding or infections. People taking medications known to 
cause bone marrow suppression should have frequent blood tests. See also RED 
BLOOD CELLS and PLATELETS.
BONE MARROW CELL POOL Those bone marrow cells responsible for the production of 
blood cells.
BRONCHI
BRONCHODILATING Part of the body that conveys air to the lungs. Anything that 
opens or expands the bronchi Bronchodilating drugs can reduce coughing, 
wheezing, & shortness of breath.
BRONCHOSCOPY Visualization of the trachea and lungs with flexible fiber optics. 
Often used to confirm a diagnosis of PCP. See also PCP. 
BROPIRIMINE Immunomodulator made by Upjohn for the treatment of Kaposi's 
Sarcoma. See also KAPOSI'S SARCOMA and IMMUNOMODULATOR. 
BUTYL-DNJ (N-BUTYLDEOXYNJIRIMYCIN) Made by G.D. Searle, butyl-DNJ inhibits 
protein N-glcosylation which is essential to the ability of HIV to infect 
healthy cells.
CACHEXIA General ill health and malnutrition.
CANDIDA ALBICANS See CANDIDIASIS.
CANDIDIASIS Infection of the skin, nails, or mucous membranes throughout the 
body, including the throat, vagina, intestines, and lungs. Caused by a 
yeast-like fungus called Candida albicans. The oral form of candidiasis, known 
as thrush, is often the first sign of HIV infection in men. Vaginal candidiasis 
is an early sign of HIV infection in women. See also OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS. 
CAPSID Protein that covers the nucleic acid core of a virus.
CARCINOGEN Any cancer producing substance.
CARCINOMA Malignant tumor that may spread to other parts of the body.
CARDIOMYOPATHY Damage to the muscle tissue of the heart.
CARRISYN (Acemannan) An extract of the Aloe Vera plant that shows antiviral 
activity. Manufactured by Carrington Labs and currently being tested in Belgium. 
A liquid extract of aloe vera that contains small amounts of Carrisyn can be 
ordered from Deveris, Inc. in Dallas, Texas 214/823-4659.
CASCADE Continuation of a process through a series of steps. Each step initiates 
the next step until the final step is reached. The action may or may not become 
cumulative as each step progresses.
CASE-CONTROL STUDY Epidemiological method in which persons with a disease or 
condition are compared with a health population similar in age, sex, race, etc. 
to determine the differences between them.
CATHETER Semi-Permanently installed venous line used to inject fluids into the 
body.
CBC See COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT.
CBCT (Community Based Clinical Trails) See also ACTG. 
CD4 Type of white blood cell (also known as T-helper or T4 Cell) that helps the 
body fight off certain infections, HIV invades these cells and weakens or 
destroys them. It also refers to a protein embedded in the cell surface of 
T-helper cells & certain other cells. HIV invades these cells by first attaching 
to the CD4 receptor. See also ABSOLUTE CD4 COUNT and SYNTHETIC CD4.
CD4-IgG See rCD4.
CD8 Protein imbedded in the cell surface of suppressor T-Lymphocytes
CDC (Centers for Disease Control) Federal Agency of the Public Health Service, 
its mandate is to track the incidence & trends of communicable diseases. Its 
responsibilities include disease surveillance, licensing of clinical 
laboratories, conducting research & training of epidemiologists & health 
workers. See also FDA, APPROVAL PROCESS, and PHS. 
CELL MEMBRANE Wall around a cell that separates it from its environment. 
CELL PROLIFERATION Multiplication of similar cells.
CELL Smallest independent unit of an organism. A cell is composed of cytoplasm 
and a nucleus and is surrounded by a membrane or wall. 
CELL LINES Specific cell types artificially grown and maintained in the 
laboratory (in vitro) for scientific purposes.
CELLULAR IMMUNITY Immunity that comes from the ability of cells to recognize 
invaders.
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS) Brain and spinal cord and the fluid which 
circulates around them.
CERVICAL CANCER HIV+ women are dying from cervical cancer. HIV+ women, compared 
to HIV- women have more frequent recurrences, lower T-cell counts, more rapid 
progression and multifocal sites.
CERVICAL DYSPLASIA Abnormal development of the tissue of the uterine cervix. 
Occurring most often in young women and particularly in women who are HIV 
infected, it appears to regress frequently but may progress over a long period 
of time to a noticeable growth. This time period to an eventual growth 
(carcinoma) is faster in women who are HIV+. See also: CERVICAL CANCER, HUMAN 
PAPILLOMA VIRUS (HPV)
CFZ See CLOFAZIMINE.
CHEMOTHERAPY Use of chemical agents in the treatment of a disease.
CHICKEN POX See HERPES VARICELLA ZOSTER VIRUS.
CHINESE BITTER MELON See MOMORDICA CHARANTIA
CHOROID Blood vessel-rich tissue that nourishes the parts of the eye, especially 
the retina.
CHOROIDITIS Inflammation or infection of the choroid. can be caused by the 
herpes zoster (shingles) virus.
CHROMOSOME Thread-like structure in the nucleus of a cell that contains genetic 
information encoded by DNA.
CHRONIC Referring to a process--such as a disease process--that progresses 
slowly and persists over a long period of time. See also ACUTE.
CILOFUNGIN Treatment for candida infection of the throat. The drug was withdrawn 
from study by the manufacturer, Eli Lily, with no reason given.
CIRCULATING IMMUNE COMPLEXES Conglomerates of antigen and antibody found in the 
blood.
CLARITHROMYCIN (CLM) Anti-infective made by Abbott (trade name Klacid) under 
study for treatment & prophylaxis of mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) and 
treatment of toxoplasmosis. It is unlikely that clarithromycin alone will be 
effective against CLARITHROMYCIN MAC since the history of mycobacterial 
therapies points to a reliance on combinations of treatments & because its 
resistance to drugs appears to develop quickly. 
CLINDAMYCIN Anti-infective made by Upjohn for treatment of PCP.
CLINICAL COMPARISON STUDY Clinical trial where the test drug is evaluated 
against an existing standard therapy rather than against a placebo.
CLINICAL TRIAL Study done at an approved institution (hospital, etc) testing 
medicines in human beings.
CLINICAL Based on observation of the condition of patients and their symptoms, 
as opposed to blood work or other laboratory tests. 
CLM See CLARITHROMYCIN.
CLOFAZIMINE (CFZ) Drug sometimes used as a prophylaxis for MAI, currently in a 
clinical trial. See also MAC.
CLONE Group of cells derived from a single parent and therefore identical to it.
CLOTTING FACTORS Substances in the blood responsible for normal coagulation. 
CMV (Cytomegalovirus) Virus related to the herpes family, CMV infections may 
occur without causing any symptom or may result in mild flu-like symptoms of 
aching, fever, mild sore throat or enlarged lymph nodes. Sever CMV infections 
can result in retinitis, hepatitis, mononucleosis or pneumonia especially in 
immune compromised persons. CMV is "shed" in body fluids such as urine, semen, 
saliva, feces and sweat. See also HPMPC, FOSCARNET, COLITIS, EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS, 
& FLOATERS.
CMV RETINITIS Infection of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the retina of the eye which 
can cause blindness.
COCCIDIOIDES IMMITIS Type of fungus which can infect the lungs of immune 
compromised persons. It can also spread to the skin, gastro-intestinal tract and 
central nervous system. See also COCCIDIOMYCOSIS. 
COCCIDIOMYCOSIS Infection with the fungus coccidioides immitis. Symptoms of lung 
infection often resemble the common cold or flu and may later recur after and 
apparent recovery. Sometimes called "desert rheumatism". See also COCCIDIOIDES 
IMMITIS.
COFACTORS Other substances, microorganisms or characteristics of individuals 
which may make them likely to develop AIDS after HIV infection or influence the 
progression of the disease.
COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT Difficulty in thinking or understanding.
COHORT Group of individuals sharing a statistical factor like HIV infection or 
age.
COLITIS Infection or inflammation of the colon that causes chronic diarrhea and 
"crampy" abdominal pain. Usually caused by infections such as cytomegalovirus 
(CMV) or Cryptosporidium. See also CMV and CRYPTOSPORIDIUM. 
COLON Last three to five feet of the intestine. also called the large intestine 
or bowel. People often refer to parts of it according to how it lies in the 
abdomen or how it is shaped. These other names are: ascending colon, Transverse 
colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum.
COLONOSCOPY Examination of the colon using a colonoscope, a long, flexible tube 
containing fiber optics.
COLPOSCOPY The examination of the vagina and cervix by means of an endoscope. 
The endoscope magnifies the cells of the vagina and cervix to allow direct 
observation of the tissue. This examination allows for a more thorough detection 
of cancerous cells. HIV+ women who do not show positive pap smears may have 
cervical cancer anyway and should rely on a colposcopy as a more reliable test 
for cervical dysplasia.
COMA State of unconsciousness in which movement and mental processes are 
impaired. People in "deep" coma cannot be aroused by external stimulus.
COMBINATION THERAPY (for HIV infection or AIDS) The use of two or more types of 
treatment in combination (for example an anti-viral therapy with an 
immunotherapy), alternately or together, to achieve optimum results against HIV 
infection and/or AIDS. Combinations may offer advantages over single drug 
therapies.
COMBINATION CHEMOTHERAPY (for cancers or AIDS-related cancers) The use of two or 
more types of treatment, chemotherapy or radiation therapy to achieve optimum 
results against the cancer.
COMPARATIVE STUDY Study comparing two things, such as two different drugs or two 
different doses of the same drug.
COMPASSIONATE USE Regulatory mechanism for releasing an investigational new drug 
(IND) when there is little established data on its efficacy. The drug company is 
generally nor allowed to charge for compassionate use and must be willing to 
give the drug free of charge to those patients whose medical condition might be 
helped by the use of COMPASSIONATE the drug. Special approval must be obtained 
from the FDA for compassionate use of a drug. Few drugs are available through 
thus program which is also referred to by the FDA as "Open Study Protocol".
COMPLEMENT Precise sequence of events, usually triggered by an antigen-antibody 
complex, in
COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT (CBC) Series of tests including cell counts, hematocrit, 
hemoglobin, & cell volume measurement.
COMPLEMENT Series of proteins in the blood that participate in the immune 
response, particularly the inflammatory response.
COMPOUND Q GLQ223 (An artificial form produced by recombinant technology), or 
trichosanthin (a natural substance derive from Chinese cucumber root), a 
substance that shows strong, selective activity against HIV-infected cells. It 
also shows very toxic side-effects. Virtually ignored by the government, 
Compound Q continues to be tested in community-based studies. See also 
RECOMBINANT and HIV.
CONCOMITANT Drugs that are taken together certain concomitant medications may 
have adverse drug interactions.
CONCURRENT Taken at the same time. For example, if "concurrent AZT" is an 
exclusion criterion in a drug trail, the participants cannot take AZT while in 
the trail.
CONJUNCTIVA Membrane the lines the inside of the eyelid and touches the white 
part of the eye; secretes a mucus that lubricates the eyeballs.
CONJUNCTIVITIS Irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva in the eye. See 
also CONJUNCTIVA.
CONTRAINDICATION ("to indicate against") Condition which makes a particular 
treatment or procedure inadvisable.
CONTROL Standard against which experimental observations may be evaluated. In 
clinical trials, one group of patient is given an experimental drug, while 
another group is given either a standard treatment for the disease or a placebo. 
See also PLACEBO CONTROLLED TRIAL.
CORE PROTEIN Integral protein in HIV composed of three units, p24, p18, and p15.
CORNEA Outermost layer of the 3 tissues that make up the wall of the eyeball; 
the clear, transparent, curved portion that covers the colored part of the eye; 
enables light rays to enter the eyeball.
CORTEX External part of an organ, such as the brain, kidney, or adrenal gland.
CORTICOSTEROID Natural substances that work as hormones and are used as 
pharmacological agents to treat many conditions with an inflammatory component. 
Corticosteroids are immunosuppressive and HIV infected individuals should be 
cautious about taking them. See also ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. 
COTTON WOOL PATCHES White spots in the internal layer of the retina (back lining 
of the eye). These spots indicate areas of blocked blood supply.
CPCRA Community Programs for Clinical Research on AIDS, part of the NIH's 
Division of AIDS.
CPK See CREATININE PHOSPHOKINASE.
CRANIAL NERVES Twelve pairs of nerves in the brain.
CREATININE PHOSPHOKINASE (CPK) Protein found in the muscles and brain and 
excreted in the urine. The level of the creatinine in the urine and blood 
provide a measure of kidney function. Exercise tends to increase CPK levels.
CROHN'S DISEASE Disease of unknown cause which can cause Inflammatory Bowel 
Disease. See also INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE.
CRYPTOCOCCAL MENINGITIS Disease caused by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans 
which is acquired via the respiratory tract. It characteristically spreads to 
the meninges (the lining of the brain and spinal cord). Symptoms may include 
headache, confusion, blurred vision, speech difficulties, and coma. It is one of 
the most frequent opportunistic infections in AIDS.
CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS Infection caused by a parasite found in the intestines of 
animals which may be transmitted to humans by direct contact or by ingestion of 
contaminated food or water. The parasite grows in the intestine and causes 
severe chronic diarrhea in immune compromised hosts. A common infection among 
children.
CRYPTOSPORIDIUM Gastrointestinal protozoa which causes chronic diarrhea in AIDS.
CTL See CYTOTOXIC T-LYMPHOCYTE.
CULTURE MENINGITIS Growth of microorganisms or living tissue in the laboratory, 
in substances that promote their growth.
CUTANEOUS Pertaining to skin.
CYTOKINES Proteins made by cells, which also can be made by DNA recombinant 
technology. Cytokines permit one type of cell to communicate with other cells. 
They can modify or regulate the growth of specific cells, such as 
erythropoietin, GM-CSF, and interferons. See also ERYTHROPOIETIN, GM-CSF, DNA 
RECOMBINANT TECHNOLOGY, and INTERFERONS
CYTOMEGALOVIRUS See CMV.
CYTOPLASM The watery material between the nucleus and the membrane of a cell.
CYTOTOXIC T-LYMPHOCYTE (CTL) Lymphocyte that is able to kill foreign cells that 
have been marked for destruction be the cellular immune system. See also White 
BLOOD CELLS, LYMPHOCYTE, and IMMUNE SYSTEM.
CYTOVENE See GANCICLOVIR.
d4T Nucleoside analog. In vitro and in vivo tests show it to be effective in 
stopping HIV.
DANAZOL Drug that suppress the action of the pituitary gland. It is used in the 
treatment of thrombocytopenia (ITP).
DAPSONE Sulfa antibiotic (4-4' diaminodiphenylsulfone) made by Jacobus 
Pharmaceuticals as prophylaxis for pneumocystis pneumonia. Early results show 
fewer toxic side effects than Bactrim or Septra. See also BACTRIM, PCP, and 
SEPTRA.
DARAPRIM See PYRIMETHAMINE.
ddC (Dideoxycytidine) This drug by Hoffman La Roche (proprietary name HIVID) is 
a dideoxynucleoside derivative (nucleoside analog), as is AZT. It appears to be 
more potent against the virus; side effects may include peripheral neuropathy in 
at least 10-20% of those who take it. Current studies in combination with AZT 
look promising. Bootleg ddC is widely available at very low cost. Hoffman La 
Roche sponsored expanded access is offered for those intolerant to or failing 
AZT, but the record-keeping requirements are so time-consuming that more people 
have turned to the underground for the drug than to the expanded access program. 
See also AZT, ddI, and HIV.
ddI (DIDEOXYINOSINE) Nucleoside analog made by Bristol-Meyers. It has been 
approved by the FDA for use in people who have failed on or are intolerant to 
AZT.
DEMENTIA Loss of mental capacity. AIDS related dementia may be caused by toxins 
created by HIV or other infections.
DEMYELINATING Having to do with destruction of the myelin sheath that surrounds 
& insulates the axion of some nerves.
DENDRITIC CELLS Primary antigen presenting cell of the human immune system. HIV 
can be found in these cells.
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES See HHS.
DERMATITIS Inflammation or irritation of the skin.
DERMATOLOGIC Having to do with the skin.
DESCICLOVIR Drug which is metabolized into acyclovir after absorption into the 
body. See also ACYCLOVIR and FOSCARNET.
DEXTRAN SULFATE Drug developed by Ueno Pharmaceuticals of Osaka, Japan about 20 
years ago. Laboratory tests showed it blocked HIV in cells. The company claims 
the drug stopped the reverse transcriptase mechanism which replicates HIV in one 
of the first three patients tested. It has demonstrated in-vitro activity 
against HIV as well as against the herpes viruses. Oral dextran sulfate 
manufactured by Dextran Products of Canada under the name Usherdex I and by Ueno 
under the name of Uendex was withdrawn form clinical trials after having shown 
poor absorption. Intravenous treatment with dextran sulfate continues to be 
studied in the underground.
DFMO Drug active against PCP and may alleviate some of the symptoms of 
cryptosporidiosis. In vitro studies suggests that DFME (Eflornithine) has a 
synergistic effect with ganciclovir, implying that lower, less toxic doses might 
be possible in the future to control retinitis.
DHEA Testosterone precursor hormone used in Japan and Italy for the treatment of 
menopause, depression, and stress and sometimes by body builders in the U.S. In 
vitro studies of DHEA in HIV infected lymphocytes and macrophages demonstrated a 
moderate selective inhibitory effect on HIV replication. Antagonistic in vitro 
with AZT, DHEA manufactured is by Elan Corp. under the trade name EL 10. See 
also HIV, AZT, and IN VITRO.
DHPG See GANCICLOVIR.
DIABETES Literally any disease which causes frequent urination, but most often 
used to refer to diabetes mellitus, a disease resulting in low levels or 
abnormal functioning of insulin in the body. Insulin is the protein which helps 
to control blood sugar levels. Symptoms of diabetes mellitus include greatly 
increased thirst and high blood sugar, as well as frequent urination.
DIAGNOSIS Process of determining the cause and nature of an illness.
DICLAZURIL Experimental treatment for cryptosporidiosis with some efficacy at 
the highest dose tested. No longer under study, but available through Jannsen 
under compassionate use while they pursue the potentially more effective analog 
Ietrazuril. Doctors' line (800) 253-3682
DISTAL Farthest from the center or from a central point of reference.
DIETHYLDITHIO-CARBAMATE See IMUTHIOL.
DIFLUCAN See FLUCONAZOLE.
DILANTIN See PHENYTOIN.
DINITROCHLORO-BENZENE (DNCB) A contact sensitizing agent that acts as a potent 
immune modulator of dendritic cells. Topical DNCB is well tolerated. See also 
DENDRITIC CELLS.
DISSEMINATED Scattered throughout the body.
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) Long chain molecule (polymer) of sugar and nitrogen 
found inside each cell of every living organism (and some viruses), DNA is the 
organism's genetic code. Humans have 46 chromosomes, and each one is made up of 
long strand os DNA. DNA gives its instructions to cells by making RNA strands, 
which then produce enzymes, proteins, and hormones to perform organic functions. 
HIV interrupts this process by recording its own RNA onto the DNA of the host 
cell (for example a T4 white blood cell) making the cell unable to perform its 
normal tasks and subjugating it to a destructive proliferation of viruses which 
then emerge into the blood stream to invade other cells. See also RNA, VIRUS, 
RETROVIRUS, WHITE BLOOD CELLS, and PROLIFERATION.
DOPAMINE Substance that functions as a transmitter of signals between cells of 
the central nervous system.
DORMANT Inactive.
DOSE Amount of a substance that is given at one time. 
DOSE-ESCALATING A certain amount of a substance is given to a group of people 
and if no serious side effects are seen, the dose is increased. This is repeated 
until the maximum dose the body can tolerate is determined.
DOSE-RANGING Two or more doses of a given substance are tested against each 
other in order to determine which dose has the most efficacy and the least 
toxicity.
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY Method of medical investigation in which neither the subject 
nor the investigator knows what treatment, if any, the subject is receiving. At 
the end of the experiment, the code is broken and data are analyzed with respect 
to the various treatments. Traditional scientific thought is that this promotes 
faster and more objective results, as the doctors' and the patients' biased 
expectation about a test drug's efficacy are said to be eliminated. However, 
truly double blinded tests may be impossible to conduct with drugs that have 
well known toxicities or side effects. Many activists, as well as many 
scientists, feel that placebo trials, including double blind studies, are 
unnecessary and inhumane when there exists a drug which is standard therapy to 
treat the condition under study.
DTC See IMUTHIOL.
DYSFUNCTION Poor functioning or abnormal functioning of a cell or organ in the 
body.
DYSPLASIA Abnormal development of tissues. In disease, the alternation of size, 
shape, and organization of mature cells. ECOG PERFORMANCE STATUS (Eastern 
Coordinating Oncology Group System) used to measure a person's ability to 
function in which:
0 = normal
1 = capable of self-care, able to do light work
2 = bedridden less than 50% of the time
3 = bedridden more than 50% of the time
4 = completely bedridden. See also KARNOFSKY SCORE.
EFFECTIVE DRUG According to the FDA, a drug that benefits patients with a 
specific condition. See also FDA.
EFFICACY Strength or efficiency. The ability to achieve the desired effect. A 
drug passes efficacy trials if it is effective against the illness for which it 
is prescribed at the dose tested. In the FDA mandated procedure, Phase II 
clinical trials gauge efficacy and Phase III trials confirm it. See also FDA, 
APPROVAL PROCESS, PHASE I, PHASE II, and PHASE III.
EFLORNITHINE See ORNIDYL EFLORNITHINE.
ELECTROLYTE Electrically charged salts found in blood, tissue, fluids, and 
cells, including the salts of sodium, potassium, and chlorine.
ELECTRON BEAM THERAPY Type of radiation therapy.
ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay) Testing method to detect antibodies to 
HIV. See also WESTERN BLOT.
EMPIRICAL TREATMENT Treatment undertaken when a precise diagnosis cannot be 
made, based on experience with similar cases.
ENCEPHALITIS General term denoting inflammation of the brain.
ENDEMIC Condition of disease that is widespread in a given population.
ENDOGENOUS Relating to or produced by the body.
ENDOMETRIUM Lining of the uterus (womb). This is what is shed (expelled) during 
menstruation (a woman's period).
ENDOSCOPY Viewing the inside of a body cavity with a devise using flexible fiber 
optics.
ENDOTHELIAL Pertaining to endothelium, the cells that line the blood vessels, 
heart, and other body cavities.
ENDOTHELIUM See ENDOTHELIAL.
ENDOTOXIN Toxin (poison) present inside a bacterial cell. 
ENTERIC Having to do with the intestines.
ENTERIC PATHOGENS Disease causing organisms infecting the gastrointestinal tract 
& sometimes spreading from there to other parts of the body.
ENTERITIS Inflammation of the intestines.
ENVELOPE Any natural enclosing covering. The HIV envelope is composed of two 
main parts: gp120, the spike like protein which binds to the CD4 surface, and 
gp141.
ENZYME Protein that can produce chemical changes in other substance without 
being changed itself. Enzymes make certain chemical reactions happen faster or 
slower than they would without the presence of the enzyme. Sometimes called a 
natural catalyst.
EOSINOPHIL Type of white blood cell, called a granulocyte, that can digest 
microorganisms.
EPIDEMIC Outbreak of disease among a given population. 
EPIDEMIOLOGY Science concerned with the determination of the specific causes or 
distribution of a disease or the interrelation between various factors 
determining a disease.
EPITOPE Unique shape or marker carried on the surface of an antigen.
EPO See ERYTHROPOIETIN.
EPREX See ERYTHROPOIETIN.
EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS (EBV) Herpes like virus that causes one of the two causes of 
mononucleosis (the other is caused by CMV). It infects the nose & throat and is 
contagious. EBV lies dormant in the lymph glands and has been associated with 
Burkitt's lymphoma & hairy leukoplakia.
ERTHYROCYTES Red blood cells, the major function of which is to carry oxygen.
ERYTHEMATOUS Red or reddened.
ERYTHROPOIETIN (EPO or EPREX) Naturally occurring protein which stimulates the 
production of red blood cells. Recombinant EPO manufactured by Ortho has been 
approved by the FDA as a treatment for severe anemia associated with AIDS and 
AZT therapy. See also ANEMIA, AZT, FDA, and AIDS.
ETIOLOGIC Pertaining to the cause or causes of disease. 
EXCLUSION/INCLUSION CRITERIA Medical or social standards determining whether or 
not a person may or may not be allowed to enter a clinical trial. For example, 
some trials may not allow alcoholics, others may exclude people with certain 
drug allergies or women, others may only include people with a lowered T-cell 
count. 
EXOGENOUS Developed or originating outside the body.
EXOTOXIN Toxic substance made by bacteria that is released outside the bacterial 
cell.
EXPANDED ACCESS System of distributing experimental drugs to patients who are 
unable to participate in ongoing clinical trials.
EXPERIMENTAL DRUG Drug that has not yet been approved for use as a treatment for 
a specific condition in a specific population. EXTRACORPOREAL Outside of the 
body.
FANSIDAR Anti-malarial agent containing two drugs, sulfadoxine (25mg) and 
pyrimethamine (500mg). It has been used to treat PCP and forms of resistant 
malaria. Severe side effects have been associated with its use. See also 
SULFADOXINE and PYRIMETHAMINE.
FATTY ACIDS Group of lipids found in animal fats. Some fatty acids are essential 
for good nutrition.
FDA (Food and Drug Administration) Agency of the U.S. Government which is 
charged with controlling and regulating human testing of drugs before marketing. 
After clinical trials are completed, the drug sponsor (drug company, etc.) must 
submit all data collected to the FDA for approval before the drug can be sold in 
the U.S. See also PHS, APPROVAL PROCESS, PHASE I, PHASE II, PHASE III, and 
CLINICAL TRIAL.
FEVER BLISTERS See HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 1.
FIAC (Fiacitibine) Drug manufactured by Oclassen which is active against all the 
herpes viruses, as well as the hepatitis B virus. Although FIAC is a nucleoside 
analog like AZT and ddI, it has no effect on HIV. One early advantage seen with 
FIAC is its ability to be administered in an oral form. FIAC was first studied 
in the early 1980s at Memorial SloaSloann-Kettering Hospital in New York City 
for the treatment of severe cytomegalovirus infections, and demonstrated some 
bone-marrow toxicity and gastrointestinal upsets. At the manufacturer's request, 
a version by Jannsen was withdrawn from study as a treatment for 
cryptosporidiosis because of poor patient compliance. See also HIV, AZT, ddI, 
and NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG.
FIACITIBINE See FIAC.
FIALURIDINE See FIAU.
FIAU (Fialuridine) Manufactured by Oclassen, FIAU is indicated for treatment of 
herpes infections and also shows action against HIV. 
FIBROBLAST Any cell from which connective tissue is developed.
FLAME RETINAL HEMORRHAGE Bright red bleeding in the inner surface of the retina 
in a flame shaped configuration with feathered edges. They are caused by the 
closing of small arteries of the nerve fiber layer of the retina and are 
associated with HIV infection and other systemic diseases. They usually resolve 
spontaneously with no lasting consequences.
FLOATERS Floating dark spots within the field of vision. They can be caused by 
CMV retinitis, but also appear in some persons as a normal part of the aging 
process.
FLUCONAZOLE Brand name Diflucan is made by Pfizer. It is a major broad-spectrum 
antifungal especially important for treating cryptococcal meningitis. 
Fluconazole is about as effective as amphotericin B, but has much less toxicity. 
In January 1990 it was approved by the FDA for use in cryptococcal meningitis 
(for acute and maintenance treatment) and for severe systemic for oral 
candidiasis. Pfizer sponsors an indigent access program for those who can't 
afford it. See also CRYPTOCOCCUS.
FLUCYTOXINE Trade name Ancobon. Antifungal drug usually given with the drug 
amphotericin B in order to decrease the emergence of resistant strains of fungi.
FLUOROTHYMIDINE Drug designed to inhibit the reverse transcriptase process. See 
also REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE and HIV.
FOLLICULITIS Bacterial infection of the hair follicles that occur most commonly 
in the hairy areas of the groin, armpit, or face.
FOSCARNET (Trisodium Phosfonoformate) Drug manufactured by Astra (trade name 
Foscavir) & used to treat retinitis and colitis caused by infection with 
cytomegalovirus (CMV). Although Foscarnet has less toxicity than Ganciclovir 
(DHPG), it is not considered to be superior to Ganciclovir in terms of 
therapeutic value. Astra sponsors two compassionate use programs one for people 
with CMV retinitis who have failed or are intolerant to treatment with 
Ganciclovir and one for immunosuppressed people with acyclovir resistant herpes.
FOSCAVIR see FOSCARNET.
FUNDI Plural of Fundus.
FUNDIC EXAM Examination in which someone looks at inside the eye with a light to 
see the structures on the back wall of the eye.
FUNDUS Usually refers to the back wall of the eye or retina.
FUNGI Plural of Fungus.
FUNGUS Form of primitive vegetable life, including mushrooms, yeasts, and molds. 
Fungi can cause infections such as thrush, cryptococcal meningitis, and 
pneumocystis pneumonia.
G-CSF (Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor) Manufactured by Amgen under the 
trade name Neupogen, G-CSF appears to be slightly more effective in stimulating 
white blood cells than GM-CSF. See also GM-CSF.
G6PD (Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) Protein normally found in red blood 
cells. Some people are born without the ability to produce this enzyme and have 
difficulty tolerating certain sulfa-containing drugs.
GAMIUNE-N Human serum globulin made by Cutter Biological as an immunomodulator 
for ARC, AIDS, and pediatric HIV infection.
GAMMA GLOBULIN (IgG) One of the proteins in the blood serum that contains 
antibodies. See also GLOBULINS, IMMUNOGLOBULINS, and IgG. 
GANCICLOVIR (DHPG) Manufactured by Syntex under the trade name CYTOVENE for both 
oral and intravenous forms. It is a drug used to treat retinitis and colitis 
that can result from infection with cytomegalovirus. Ganciclovir suppresses the 
action of the bone marrow in producing red cells, which makes it an unrealistic 
treatment for some, especially those who are also using AZT, which has similar 
toxicities. Foscarnet, currently in trial, is an alternative treatment.
GANGLION Mass of nervous tissue, composed principally of nerve cell bodies, 
usually lying outside of the central nervous system.
GASTROENTERITIS Inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines. 
GASTROINTESTINAL Being unable to take a drug because it causes problems in the 
digestive system, usually stomach aches or diarrhea.
GASTROINTESTINAL Relating to the stomach and intestines. 
GENE Unit of DNA that carries the code for specific cell functions. See also DNA 
and RNA.
GENOME DNA code that comprises the complete genetic composition of a living 
organism.
GENTAMYCIN LIPOSOME INJECTION (TLC-65) Recently granted Orphan Drug Status by 
the FDA. It is manufactured by the Liposome Company. Gentamicin sulfate is 
already approved to treat certain bacterial infections, but like many 
antibodies, it does not adequately reach the interior of human cells, where MAI 
resides. Liposomes naturally penetrate cell walls and so are sometimes used to 
encapsulate and deliver a given drug to intracellular targets. 
GLAND Organ that produces specialized chemicals, such as hormones, that are 
released in to the blood to act at distant sites.
GLOBULINS Simple proteins found in the blood serum which contain various 
molecules central to the immune system function. See also IMMUNOGLOBULINS.
GLQ223 See COMPOUND Q.
GLYCOPROTEIN Protein to which a certain type of sugar (glocosyl) has been added.
GLYCOSYLATION Process of adding a form of glucose called glycosyl to a protein 
to form a glycoprotein.
GLYCYRRHIZIN The drug glycyrrhizin sulfate, derived from licorice root, has been 
observed in laboratory tests to inhibit HIV replication, interfere with virus to 
cell binding and cell to cell infection, suppress the clumping of infected cells 
and induce interferon activity. Glycyrrhizin also inactivated herpes simplex 
virus and varicella zoster virus, both of which can become serious opportunistic 
infections in immune compromised people. Glycyrrhizin, currently used in Japan 
to treat liver disease, is being studied as a possible complimentary therapy for 
a number of conditions involving liver dysfunction. 
GM-CSF (Granulocyte Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor) Hormone that 
stimulates growth of granulocyctes and macrophages. GM-CSF has been synthesized 
by genetic engineering and is being tested as an immunomodulator. The Genetics 
Institute of Cambridge, Mass. owns the patent and has licensed the drug to 
Sandoz, Schering-Plough, and Immunex, who manufacture it under the name 
Leucomax. Schering-Plough has a compassionate use program for people with life 
threatening granulocytopenia or dysfunctional granulocytes. For info call (201) 
298-5747. See also G-CSF.
GP-120 Protein found in HIV which is used in a vaccine developed by Chiron. See 
also GLYCOSYLATION and ENVELOPE.
GRANULAR LEUKOCYTE See BASOPHIL.
GRANULOCYTE Type of white blood cell filled with granules of toxic chemicals 
that enable them to digest microorganisms. Basophils, neutrophils, and 
eosinophils are examples of granulocytes. See also WHITE BLOOD CELLS, BASOPHILS, 
NEUTROPHILS, GRANULOCYTOPENIA, and EOSINOPHILS.
GRANULOCYTOPENIA Abnormally low number of granulocytes in the circulating blood 
that can lead to increased risk of severe bacterial infection. See also WHITE 
BLOOD CELLS, BASOPHILS, NEUTROPHILS, and EOSINOPHILS. 
GUILLIAN-BARRE SYNDROME Acute disease that produces bilateral weakness 
paralysis, most common in the legs and feet.
H2 ANTAGONISTS Medications used to treat longstanding acid indigestion and 
stomach ulcers.
HAIRY LEUKOPLAKIA Condition believed to be caused by a combination of the 
Epstein-Barr and Human Papilloma Virus. Symptoms include white patches in the 
mouth, often in a striped pattern on the side of the tongue.
HALF-LIFE Time required for half the amount of a drug to be eliminated from the 
body.
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT See HHS.
HELPER T CELLS Lymphocytes bearing the CD4 marker that are responsible for many 
immune system functions, including turning antibody production on and off. See 
also T4 CELLS, CD4 CELLS, T-CELLS, and HELPER-SUPPRESSOR RATIO.
HELPER-SUPPRESSOR RATIO Ratio of "helper" T4 cells to "suppressor" T8 cells. The 
ratio of T4 to T8 cells is normally 2 to 1, commonly written as 2. In HIV 
infected people, the ratio frequently falls below 1 to 1.
HEMATOCRIT Percentage of red blood cells in a given volume of whole blood. In 
women, red blood cells are normally 37 to 47% of their blood, and in men, red 
blood cells are normally 40 to 54% of their blood. See also RED BLOOD CELLS, 
HEMOGLOBIN, and COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT.
HEMATOLOGIC INTOLERANCE Being unable to take a drug because it damages the blood 
by, for example, lowering the platelet count or the red blood cell count. See 
also HEMACRIT, RED BLOOD CELLS, and PLATELETS.
HEMATOLOGIC DISORDERS Abnormalities of the blood.
HEMOPHILIA Inherited disease that causes people to bruise easily and blood 
profusely. It can cause severe internal bleeding.
HEMOPOIETIC TISSUE Tissue from which the blood is produced in the body.
HEMOTOXIC
HEMOGLOBIN Poisonous to the blood or blood producing bone marrow. Protein in red 
blood cells that carries oxygen to the cells. Normal hemoglobin values for women 
are 12-15 grams per liter of blood. For men, normal values are 14-16 grams per 
liter of blood. These values may vary according to the laboratory where the 
measurement is done.
HEPARIN (also called Heparinic acid) Anticoagulant principle that is a component 
of various tissues, especially liver and lung tissue and mast cells. Because 
levels of heparin appear to be affected by HIV infection, heparin is under 
consideration as a surrogate marker.
HEPARINIC ACID See HEPARIN.
HEPATIC Of or pertaining to the liver.
HEPATITIS B Viral disease that can be acute or chronic and even 
life-threatening, especially in people with poor immune resistance. Like HIV, 
the hepatitis B virus can be transmitted by sexual contact, contaminated needles 
or , or contaminated blood or blood products. Unlike HIV, it is also 
transmissible through close casual contact. See also HERPES and HIV. 
HEPATITIS Inflammation of the liver. Often accompanied by jaundice, enlarged 
liver, fever fatigue, and nausea.
HEPT (Hydroxyethethoxy methyl phenylthiothymine) This drug is potential 
antiviral shown to work in both T-cells and macrophanges infected with HIV-1, 
but did not affect HIV-2 or other viruses.
HERPES VARICELLA ZOSTER VIRUS (HVZ) Virus that causes Chicken Pox in children. 
It may lie dormant for many years and when reactivated in people with poor 
immunity, it can cause painful blisters called shingles. See also ACYCLOVIR, 
HUMAN HERPES VIRUS 6, FOSCARNET, HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 1, and GANCICLOVIR.
HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 2 (HSV-2) Virus that can cause inflammatory disease of the 
skin or mucus membrane. It is highly contagious and is usually sexually 
transmitted. Painful blisters may appear on the anus or genitals 2 to 12 days 
after infection. In healthy individuals, symptoms disappear without treatment in 
2 to 3 weeks. In severely immuno-compromised individuals, the virus is sometimes 
difficult to suppress. Lesions persist longer, are more extensive, and can 
result in severe ulcerations. Like HSV-1, HSV-2 may lie dormant for weeks, 
months, or years before reactivating to produce symptoms. Physicians use 
acyclovir to treat outbreaks of HSV-2 and as a preventative therapy for people 
with immune deficiencies. Ganciclovir and Foscarnet have been used to treat 
people with acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex infection. See also ACYCLOVIR, 
HUMAN HERPES VIRUS 6, FOSCARNET, HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 1, and GANCICLOVIR.
HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 1 (HSV-1) Virus that can cause painful cold sores or 
blisters on the lips (fever blisters) or in the mouth or around the eyes. The 
symptomatic disease stage occurs at unpredictable intervals of weeks, months, or 
years. The latent virus can reactivate due to emotional stress, physical trauma, 
other infections, or suppression of the immune system. HIV-1 responds well to 
treatment with acyclovir. See also HUMAN HERPES VIRUS 6 and HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS 
2.
HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) Part of U.S. government charged 
with administering health related social services. See also PHS, FDA and CDC.
HICKMAN CATHETER Flexible, needle-shaped tube which can be surgically placed in 
a large blood vessel an held in place for long periods of time. The catheter 
allows immediate access to the blood stream for infusion of medicines or food at 
any time. It is usually implanted in the chest. See also DHPG.
HISTOCOMPATIBILITY TESTING Method of matching the self-antigens (HLA) on the 
tissues of a transplant donor with those of the recipient. The closer the match, 
the better the chances the transplant will not be rejected. See also HLA.
HISTOPLASMA CAPSULATUM Type of fungus which may infiltrate the lungs or other 
parts of the body.
HISTOPLASMOSIS Widespread infection with histoplasma capsulatum of either an 
organ (for example: Histoplasmosis of the lungs) or of the entire system. 
HIVAC-le Vaccine developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb for treatment of early HIV 
infection. It was withdrawn from Phase II testing after showing no positive 
results.
HIVID See ddC.
HIVIG Type of passive immunotherapy, a treatment in which plasma from 
HIV-positive but asymptomatic donors is processed to inactivate HIV and then 
infused into HIV infected subjects. the plasma donors are selected for high 
levels of HIV neutralizing antibodies.
HLA See HUMAN LEUKOCYTE ANTIGENS.
HODGKIN'S LYMPHOMA Type of cancer of the lymph system. 
HOST DEFENSE Total bodily protection against disease.
HOST Cell or organism that supports the growth of a parasite or virus. 
HPMPC Drug currently being developed by Bristol-Myers, acts against CMV and 
herpes (not against HIV). Much of the research on HPMPC has tested it for 
herpes, but in AIDS the most important use may be for treating CMV. IN the 
laboratory, HPMPC is active against CMV in very small concentrations. In vivo 
and in vitro studies have been completed, the next step is for Bristol-Myers to 
complete preclinical tests, obtain an IND from the FDA, and begin clinical 
trials. See also CMV, & HERPES.
HPV See HUMAN PAPPILOMA VIRUS.
HSV See HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS-1 and HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS-2.
HTLV-III See HIV-1.
HUMAN T-CELL
LEUKEMIA VIRUS (HTLV) Recently identified family of slow viruses known to cause 
several conditions, including cancers, in humans.
HUMAN HERPES VIRUS 6 New herpes virus recently discovered by Dr. Robert Gallo 
and associates at the National Cancer Institute. Dr. Gallo has suggested that 
HHV 6 may play a role as a cofactor in the development of AIDS. See also HERPES 
SIMPLEX VIRUS-1 and HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS-2.
HUMAN LEUKOCYTE ANTIGENS (HLA) Markers on cells which identify themselves as 
part of the body thus preventing attack by the immune system. See also 
HISTOCOMPATIBILITY TESTING.
HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE 2 Virus very similar to HIV-1 which has been 
found to cause immunosuppression. HIV-2 infections are reported primarily in 
Africa.
HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE 1 Retrovirus isolated and generally recognized 
as the cause of AIDS. HIV-1 is classified as lentivirus (slow virus) in the 
subgroup of retroviruses.
HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS (HPV) The virus that causes genital warts and is linked to 
cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer. HPV affects over 24 million Americans 
and the Centers for Disease Control estimates that there are at least 500,000 
new cases each year. There is no cure for HPV and there is potential for the 
recurrence of problems even after treatment. HPV is a frequently seen infection 
in women with HIV/AIDS. See also CERVICAL CANCER and CERVICAL DYSPLASIA
HUMORAL IMMUNITY Resistance to disease conferred by the antibodies produced by B 
lymphocytes.
HYPER- Prefix (first part of a word) that means raised or increased.
HYPERICIN Drug in human use in Europe as an antidepressant and long used in 
herbal medicine (derived from St. John's wort). It works very well against HIV 
in the test tube and against other retroviruses in animals. It has been shown to 
inhibit the assembly and budding of HIV virions from infected cells in vitro 
possibly by direct inactivation of virions or by interfering with shedding os 
assembled virus particles at the cell membrane.
HYPERPLASIA Excessive growth of normal cells.
HYPERSENSITIVITY Describes a situation in which the body reacts with an 
exaggerated immune response to drugs or other substances.
HYPERTHERMIA Treatment which consists of artificially raising the body 
temperature. Using tubes inserted in an artery and a vein in the thigh, blood is 
withdrawn, heated outside the body with a heat exchanger, and then put back into 
the body. With the temperature carefully monitors by thermometers in the 
pulmonary artery and in the bladder body temperature is gradually raised to 42°C 
(between 107° and 108°F) for two hours. The patient, who is under general 
anesthesia, is then cooled gradually.
HYPOKALEMIA Abnormally low level of potassium in the blood. May result in 
abnormal heart rhythms, muscle weakness, or paralysis HYPOMAGNESEMIC Abnormally 
low levels of magnesium in the blood that can cause muscle weakness and fatigue. 

IBD See INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE.
IDIOPATHIC THROMBOCYTOPENIA PURPURA Condition in which the body produces 
antibodies against and destroys its own platelets. See PURPURA also PLATELETS, 
CBC, & RED BLOOD CELLS.
IDIOPATHIC Disorder of unknown origin.
IDIOTYPES Unique and characteristic parts of an antibody's variable region which 
makes the antibody antigen specific. See also ANTIGEN, ANTIGEN SPECIFIC, 
ANTIBODY, & ANTI-IDIOTYPE.
IDU Injection drug user. See also IVDU.
IgA Immunoglobulin found in body fluids such as tears and saliva and in the 
respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. Protects the body entrances from 
infection. See also IMMUNOGLOBULIN and GLOBULIN.
IgD Immunoglobulin that is poorly understood but is thought to participate in 
regulatory functions. See also IMMUNOGLOBULIN and GLOBULIN.
IgE Immunoglobulin that participates in allergic reactions. See also 
IMMUNOGLOBULIN and GLOBULIN.
IgG Immunoglobulin that circulates in the blood and enters tissues. See also 
IMMUNOGLOBULIN and GLOBULIN.
IgM Immunoglobulin that primarily kills bacteria in the blood. See also 
IMMUNOGLOBULIN and GLOBULIN.
IL1 See INTERLEUKIN 1.
IL2 See INTERLEUKIN 2.
IMMULIN (IMMUNEX) is an Australian version of alfa interferon in a stabilized 
state, as is Welferon, another stabilized version make by Burroughs Wellcome. 
This stabilized version has been showing some efficacy in immune modulation, 
antiviral action and OI (particularly KS) treatment [Experimental]. See also 
ALFA INTERFERON.
IMMUNE SYSTEM Various cells and proteins that work together to fight infections 
and regulate many of the body's functions. First, the immune system identifies 
an infectious agent (like a virus or bacteria) and the antigens that are part of 
it. Then it makes antibodies that are designed to counteract the antigens of the 
particular infection. These antibodies then try to locate and destroy the 
infection. Normally once antibodies are created, they remain in a person's 
immune system for the remainder of her/his life. Because of this, people usually 
do not become ill from the same infection more than once, since the antibodies 
can stop the infection before it has a chance to cause illness. Unfortunately, 
not all antibodies succeed in destroying the infection they are created to 
fight. HIV antibodies are one instance in which the antibodies are not 
effective. Even though a person's immune system tries to kill HIV by creating 
antibodies to it, these antibodies are not successful and HIV is able to destroy 
the immune system despite the presence of antibodies. See also HIV, 
IMMUNOCOMPETENT, WHITE BLOOD CELLS, CBC, IMMUNE DEFICIENCY, and IMMUNITY.
IMMUNE DEFICIENCY Breakdown in immunocompetence when certain parts of the immune 
system no longer function. This makes a person more susceptible to certain 
diseases. See also IMMUNOCOMPETENT IMMUNE RESPONSE Activity of the immune system 
when confronted with an infection.
IMMUNE COMPLEXES Combinations of antibodies and antigens that circulate in the 
blood when certain a person has certain infections and autoimmune diseases. 
IMMUNEX See INTERLEUKIN 2.
IMMUNITY Natural or acquired resistance to a specific disease. Immunity may be 
partial or complete, long lasting or temporary.
IMMUNIZATION Protection against disease by vaccination (injection).
IMMUNOCOMPETENT Capable of developing an immune response. See also IMMUNE 
RESPONSE, IMMUNE DEFICIENCY, & IMMUNE RESPONSE.
IMMUNOGLOBULIN Serum proteins that confer immunity. There are five types each of 
which are designated by the letters Ig and a third letter. They are IgA, IgD, 
IgE, IgG, and IgM. See also IgA, IgE, IgG, IgM, IMMUNE SYSTEM, and GLOBULIN.
IMMUNOLOGIC Relating to the study of immunity. See also IMMUNITY.
IMMUNO-MODULATING Attempt to reconstruct or enhance a damaged immune system. 
Examples of immunomodulating therapies for AIDS include DNCB, isoprinosine, and 
Imuthiol (DTC). See also DNCB, ISOPRINOSINE, IMMUNOMODULATOR, IMUTHIOL, and 
IMMUNE SYSTEM.
IMMUNOMODULATOR Drug which alters, suppress, or strengthens the immune system. 
See also IMMUNOMODULATING, DNCB, IMUTHIOL, ISOPRINOSINE, and IMMUNE SYSTEM.
IMMUNO-POTENTIATOR See IMMUNOSTIMULANT.
IMMUNOSTIMULANT Any agent or substance that triggers or enhances the body's 
defenses.
IMMUNO-SUPPRESSION State of the body in which immune system defenses have been 
weakened.
IMMUNOTHERAPY Therapy that attempts to reconstruct or enhance a damaged immune 
system. Drugs with possible immune-boosting effects include DNCB, isoprinosine, 
and Imuthiol (DTC). See also IMMUNOMODULATING, DNCB, IMUTHIOL, ISOPRINOSINE, and 
IMMUNE SYSTEM.
IMMUNOTOXIN Monoclonal antibody linked to a toxic drug or a radioactive 
substance. See also MONOCLONAL ANTIBODY.
IMREG-1 Leukocyte derived immunomodulator which has been demonstrated to enhance 
the production of some immune system proteins in CD4+ cells from HIV-negative 
people. See also HIV, LEUKOCYTE, CD4+ CELLS, T-CELLS, WHITE BLOOD CELLS, BLOOD, 
and CBC.
IMUTHIOL (Diethyldithiocarbarbate) also known as DTC, this is an immune 
modulator developed in France. It is believed to make the liver produce a 
substance which causes the growth of T-Cells. Results of a multi-center trial 
are mixed at best. Those who received the drug had slightly fewer opportunistic 
infections (OIs) than those who received the placebo, however, these results 
only applied when patients were not using AZT or PCP prophylaxis.
IN VITRO (Latin for in glass, usually italicized.) Experiments performed outside 
a living organism. For example, drugs tested on human cells in an test tube are 
being tested in vitro. The opposite of in vivo. 
IN VIVO (Latin for in living tissue, usually italicized.) Experiments performed 
in a living organism. For example, drugs tested by giving them to a mouse or a 
human patient are being tested in vivo. The opposite of in vitro. 
INCAPACITATING FATIGUE Feeling so tired that one cannot do even ordinary tasks, 
like washing dishes or making toast.
INCLUSION/EXCLUSION CRITERIA See EXCLUSION/INCLUSION CRITERIA.
INCUBATION PERIOD Time between the initial exposure to infection and the 
appearance of the first symptom(s) or sign(s) of illness.
IND STATUS See INVESTIGATIONAL NEW DRUG and FDA.
INDICATION Purpose for which a drug is intended, for example pentamidine is 
indicated for PCP. See also APPROVAL PROCESS.
INDOMETHACIN Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug which provides symptomatic 
relief from fever and diarrhea.
INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD) Disorder of the colon. Symptoms include 
abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhea. IBD can be one of two diseases with 
unknown causes: ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
INFORMED CONSENT Method of protection for people considering entering a drug 
trial. Before entering a trial, participants must understand and sign a consent 
form that contains an explanation of why the research is being done, what the 
researchers want to accomplish, what will be done during the trial and for how 
long, what risks are involved in the trial, what benefits can be expected from 
the trial, and what other treatments are available. The informed consent must 
also guarantee the participant the right to leave the trial at any time. See 
also APPROVAL PROCESS and FDA.
INFUSION Process of giving a substance (medication, food supplements, etc) to a 
patient by injecting it into the blood stream. This procedure can be a one time 
event or can continue over many hours, days, or even months. Infusion can be 
accomplished through an IV (intravenous) line, or through a catheter. See also 
HICKMAN CATHETER.
INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD (IRB) Every institution that conducts or supports 
biomedical or behavioral research involving human subjects must, by Federal 
regulation, have an IRB that initially approves and periodically reviews 
research so as to protect the rights of human subjects. IRB's must have at least 
five members of professional, racial, and cultural backgrounds different enough 
to provide complete and adequate review of research and sensitivity to community 
attitudes: at least one member cannot be a medical professional. Before it can 
approve research the IRB must determine that risks to a subject are reasonable 
in relation to anticipated benefits and to the knowledge that will result from 
the research, and that those risks have been minimized. The IRB can later 
terminate research that it decides either fails to meet its requirements or 
exposes subjects to unexpected harm. See also DRUG APPROVAL PROCESS and FDA.
INTEGRATION Process by which the viral DNA of HIV enters the DNA of the T-helper 
cell. It can remain in the cell without reproducing until the T-helper cell is 
stimulated. See also T-CELL, DNA, HIV, LATENCY, and DORMANT.
INTERFERONS Natural proteins (lymphokines) produced by the body in response to 
an infection. these substances interfere with cell infection. There are 3 main 
classes of interferon, alpha, beta, and gamma. The interferons have been 
synthesized using recombinant DNA technology. See also DNA, ALPHA INTERFERON, 
and RECOMBINANT DNA.
INTERLEUKIN 1 (IL1) Molecule that is activated early in immune response. It is 
also called progen because it causes fever.
INTERLEUKIN 2 (IL2) One of a family of molecules that control the growth and 
function of many types of lymphocytes. It is manufactured by Hoffman-LaRoche and 
Immunex under the trade name Leukomax and by Cetus under the name Proleukin. See 
also LYMPHOCYTES and WHITE BLOOD CELLS. 
INTESTINAL MALABSORPTION Condition in which the nutrients found in food are not 
absorbed by the body. It can lead to malnutrition and weight loss.
INTRA- Prefix which means within or into.
ITRACONAZOLE Drug with possible use in treating fungal infections. See also 
FLUCONAZOLE.
INTRACTABLE DISEASE Disorder which is not responsive to treatment.
INTRALESIONAL Injected directly into a lesion.
INTRAMUSCULAR Injected directly into a muscle.
INTRATHECAL Injected into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord.
INTRAVENOUS Within or into the veins. Intravenous drugs are injected directly 
into the veins.
INTRON A Interferon Alpha 2b, made by Schering-Plough, approved by the FDA as a 
treatment for Kaposi's Sarcoma. See also KAPOSI'S SARCOMA, ALPHA INTERFERON, and 
INTERFERON.
INVESTIGATIONAL NEW DRUG STATUS After pre-clinical trials, drug companies submit 
IND applications, showing the results of all animal testing and how the drug is 
made to the FDA, which must approve or reject the application within 30 days. 
this paves the way for phase I clinical trials. Certain drugs are available on a 
case by case basis through this mechanism. See also FDA.
IRB See INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD.
IRIS Colored disk behind the cornea and in front of the lens that regulates the 
amount of light entering the eye by adjusting the size of the pupil.
IRITIS Inflammation within the anterior chamber and iris of the eye which can be 
caused by herpes zoster and other infections.
ISCADOR Manufactured by Hiscia, a Swiss firm, it is a drug extracted from 
mistletoe and used for more than sixty years in Europe to treat certain 
solid-tumor cancers. It has been studied in the U.S. recently for it's 
immunomodulatory and anti-viral activity against HIV and appears to facilitate 
the immune system's own production of interferon. See also IMMUNOMODULATOR, 
IMMUNE SYSTEM, and HIV.
ISOLATE Particular strain of an infectious agent. it is used to describe the 
specific agent found in an individual.
ISOPRINOSINE (Inosine Pranobex) Drug that may have immunomodulating effects; 
there are conflicting results from the studies done. 
ITP See IDIOPATHIC THROMBOCYTOPENIA PURPURA.
ITRACONAZOLE Maintenance therapy for cryptococcal meningitis and histoplasmosis 
and treatment for fungal skin and nail infections. Manufactured by Jannsen under 
the trade name Sporanox, it was originally studied as a treatment for 
cryptococcal meningitis, but the manufacturer changed the protocol. Similar to 
Fluconazole, but much less expensive. See also FLUCONAZOLE, CRYPTOCOCCAL 
MENINGITIS, and HISTOPLASMOSIS.
IV PENTAMIDINE (Intravenous Pentamidine) Drug frequently used as the second line 
treatment (after TMP-SMX) for PCP. Side effects may include pancreatitis. See 
also TMP-SMX, PANCREATITIS, and PCP.
IVDU Intravenous drug user. See also IDU.
JAUNDICE Yellow pigmentation of the skin and whites of the eyes from excessive 
production of bilirubin (a liver enzyme) caused by liver disease, such as 
hepatitis, or excessive destruction of red blood cells.
KAPOSI'S SARCOMA Tumor of the walls of the lymph vessels that usually appears as 
pink and purple painless spots on the surface of the skin, but they can also 
occur internally. KS is commonly found among people with AIDS, especially Gay 
and bisexual men.
KARNOFSKY SCORE Measure given by a physician to a patient's ability to perform 
certain ordinary tasks:
100 = normal, no complaints
70 = unable to carry on normal activity
50 = requires frequent medical care
40 = disabled
30 = hospitalized
See also ECOG PERFORMANCE STATUS.
KETOCONAZOLE SUSPENSION See NIZORAL.
KG (Kilogram) Unit of measurement in the metric system. It is equally to 1000 
grams or 2.2046 pounds.
KILLER T-CELLS Lymphocytes able to kill cells that are foreign, infectious, or 
cancerous. See also LYMPHOCYTES, WHITE BLOOD CELLS, and IMMUNE SYSTEM.
KLACID See CLARITHROMYCIN.
KS See KAPOSI'S SARCOMA.
KUPFFER CELLS Specialized macrophanges in the liver. See also MACROPHANGES, 
LIVER, WHITE BLOOD CELLS, and IMMUNE SYSTEM.
LACTIC DEHYDROGENASE (LDH) Enzyme found in the blood and various tissues that 
helps to break down the lactic acid in milk and certain other foods. An elevated 
level of LDH may signal damage to the muscle or other tissues.
LACTOSE Type of sugar found in most dairy products, including milk, butter, and 
cheese. Some people are allergic to it.
LAK CELLS (Lymphokine Activated Killer Cells) Lymphocytes transformed in the 
laboratory to attack tumor cells. See also LYMPHOCYTES, and IMMUNE SYSTEM. 
LANGERHANS CELLS Cells in the skin that carry surface receptors for 
immunoglobulin and are believed to play a role in the processing of antigens. 
See also IMMUNOGLOBULIN and ANTIGENS.
LAS (Lymphadenopathy Associated Syndrome) Condition in HIV infected individuals 
which is characterized by swollen, sometime painful lymph glands. 
LATENCY Period between contracting a disease and showing symptoms; similar to 
incubation period.
LAVAGE Washing.
LDH See LACTIC DEHYDROGENASE
LENTIVIRUS Sub-family of retroviruses (including HIV) that are cytopathic and 
cause chronic diseases.
LECTINS Substance derived from plants that produces action resembling 
immunological reactions. Lectins are commonly used as mitogens (agents that 
stimulate cell division).
LENTINAN (b-(1-3)Glucan) Polysaccharide extracted form shiitake mushrooms which 
has an immunostimulating effect, manufactured by Linti-Chemico.
LESION General term describing an area of altered tissue or the infected patch 
or sore in a skin disease.
LEUCOVORIN CALCIUM Calcium salt of folic acid (member of the vitamin B complex). 
Leucovorin is used to treat severe anemia.
LEUKEMIA A disease characterized by widespread pathological proliferation of one 
or more of the white blood cell-forming tissues having an invariably fatal 
outcome. The Leukemias are divided into two major types: the myeloid and the 
lymphoid. In the myeloid type, there is an increase of the white blood 
cell-forming elements of the bone marrow, which gradually crowd out the red 
cell-forming tissue with the general pathology of anemia developing as an end 
result. In the lymphatic type, it is the lymphatic tissues that increase in 
amount. The lymphatic enlargement includes not only the superficial nodes of the 
neck, armpits and groin, but also the lymphoid follicles of the nasopharynx, 
tonsils, tongue and gastrointestinal tract. Anemia results from a crowding out 
of red cell-forming tissue by the lymphocytes.
LEUKOCYTES See WHITE BLOOD CELLS.
LEUKOCYTOSIS An increase in the number of white blood cells (WBC) above 10,000. 
Leukocytosis is found in most acute infections and also can result 
physiologically from severe muscular activity, digestion of a meal, emotional 
stress, massage, dehydration and certain drugs.
LEUKOMAX See GM-CSF.
LEUKOPENIA Abnormally low number of white blood cells in the circulating blood. 
Normal white blood cell count varies between 6,000 and 10,000 per cubic 
millimeter. Leukopenia occurs when white blood cells in circulating blood drop 
below 6,000 per cubic millimeter. Leukopenia occurs in many diseases such as 
typhoid fever, measles, influenza, dengue fever, many of the anemias and 
malaria. Leukopenia will also develop in chronic hemorrhages; malnutrition; 
lead, mercury and arsenic poisoning; and also in alcohol and morphine poisoning. 
Abnormal white blood cell counts are found in most persons with HIV infection 
due to opportunistic infections or medications taken.
LEVAMISOLE Immunostimulant under development by Jannsen since the 1960s. It is 
available on a compassionate use basis for people with colon cancer, but is not 
being studied for AIDS. Nevertheless, many PWAs use it as an immunomodulator and 
report some reduction in the number of minor infections (like colds and sinus 
problems) they get. See also IMMUNOMODULATOR. 
LIP (Lymphocytic Interstitial Pneumonia) Type of pneumonia that affects 35 to 
40% of children with AIDS. Children with HIV who have LIP are diagnosed as 
having AIDS.
LIPID Any of a group of fats and fat-like compounds, including steroids, fatty 
acids, and many other substances.
LIPOIC ACID See THIOCTIC ACID.
LITHIUM Psychiatric medication (commonly prescribed for Manic-Depressive 
Disorder) that has the effect of elevating neutrophils in some patients.
LUMBAR PUNCTURE (Spinal Tap) Method of withdrawing a sample of cerebra-spinal 
fluid from the spinal cord.
LYMPH Transparent slightly yellow fluid that carries lymphocytes. Lymph is 
derived from tissue fluids collected from all parts of the body and returned to 
the blood via the lymphatic vessels. See also LYMPHATIC VESSELS, LYMPHOMA, 
LYMPHADENOPATHY, and LYMPH NODES.
LYMPH NODES Small bean-sized organs of the immune system which are widely 
distributed throughout the body. Lymph fluid is filtered through these nodes in 
which all types of lymphocytes take up temporary residence. Antigens which enter 
the body and find their way to into the lymph or blood are filtered out by the 
lymph nodes or spleen, respectively, for attack by the immune system. See also 
LYMPHATIC VESSELS, LYMPHOMA, LYMPHADENOPATHY, LYMPHOCYTES, and LYMPH.
LYMPHADENOPATHY Enlargement of the lymph nodes or lymph system. The causes of 
this enlargement can range from temporary infections, such as a cold or flu, to 
lymphoma, which is cancer of the lymph nodes. See also LYMPH, LYMPHATIC VESSELS, 
LYMPHOMA, LYMPHOCYTES, and LYMPH NODES.
LYMPHATIC VESSELS Extensive network of channels, similar to blood vessels, which 
transport lymph to the immune organs and into the blood stream. See also LYMPH, 
LYMPHOCYTES, LYMPHOMA, LYMPHADENOPATHY, and LYMPH NODES.
LYMPHOCYTES Small white blood cells that bear the major responsibility for 
carrying out immune system functions, such as modulating the strength of the 
overall immune response (helper and suppressor lymphocytes), killing invading 
organisms (killer lymphocytes), and providing antibodies. See also T-CELL, 
B-CELL, T4 CELLS, T8 CELLS, IMMUNE SYSTEM, LYMPHATIC VESSELS, LYMPHOMA, 
LYMPHADENOPATHY, and LYMPH NODES.
LYMPHOKINES Products of lymphocytes that are responsible for various immune 
reactions and help produce cellular immunity by stimulating macrophanges and 
lymphocytes. Lymphokines include the interferons and interleukins.
LYMPHOMA Cancer of the lymphoid tissues. Lymphomas are often described as being 
large or small cell types, cleaved or non-cleaved, diffuse or nodular. The 
different types often have different prognoses. Some of these lymphomas are 
named after the doctor who first described them: Burkitt's lymphoma and 
Hodgkin's disease are examples. Lymphomas can also be referred to by the organ 
in which they are active, such as CNS lymphomas which are in the central nervous 
system, and GI lymphomas which are in the intestinal tract. Lymphoma, especially 
B-cell lymphoma, is common in HIV-infected persons. The lymphomas are commonly 
found in the lymph nodes or the central nervous system but rarely do these 
lymphomas occur in the skin. When they occur in the skin, their appearance may 
be very non-specific; that is, these skin lymphomas can be small papules 
resembling insect bits or firm nodules with a superficial resemblance to 
Kaposi's Sarcoma. Note: lymphomas occur in HIV+ women more often than in HIV+ 
men. See also IMMUNE SYSTEM, LYMPHATIC VESSELS, LYMPHADENOPATHY, and LYMPH 
NODES.
LYSIS Rupture and destruction of a cell.
MAC See MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM INTERCELLULARE COMPLEX.
MACROLIDES Any of a group of antibiotics with large ring molecular structure.
MACROPHAGE Large white blood cell which ingests degenerated cells and blood 
tissues and foreign particles. It breaks down foreign particles and displays 
their antigens on its surface. T-4 cells then read these antigens and begin the 
process of antibody production. Macrophage exist in large numbers throughout the 
body and appear to be a reservoir for HIV replication. See also IMMUNE SYSTEM, 
ANTIBODY, and WHITE BLOOD CELLS.
MACULA Pigmented central area, or "yellow spot" of the retina. Devoid of blood 
vessels, it is the most sensitive area of the retina and is responsible for the 
retina's nourishment.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING Non-invasive diagnostic technique that can provide 
information on the form and function of internal tissue and organs of the body.
MAI BACILLEMIA Having mycobacterium avium intercellulare organisms floating 
freely in the blood.
MAI See MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM INTERCELLULAR and MAC.
MAINTENANCE THERAPY Use of a treatment or treatments to maintain a desired 
effect that has been achieved.
MAJOR HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLEX (MHC) Group of genes that control aspects of 
the immune response. The products of these genes, the histocompatibility 
antigens, are present on every cell of the body and serve as markers to 
distinguish self from non-self cells. See also ANTIGENS, IMMUNE SYSTEM, and 
GENES.
MALABSORPTION SYNDROME Abnormal intestinal absorption of nutrients resulting in 
increased production of loose or bulky stools. Severe malabsorption syndrome can 
result on severe malnutrition, vitamin deficiency and other problems.
MALAISE Generalized nonspecific feeling of discontent or illness.
MALIGNANCY Neoplasm or tumor replicating out of control an invading tissue and 
causing damage to that tissue.
MARINOL Synthetic form of tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in 
marijuana. Unimed, the manufacturer, has been granted Orphan Drug Status for 
marinol as a treatment for stimulating appetite and combatting weight loss in 
persons with AIDS.
MAST CELL Granulocyte found in tissue. The contents of the mast cells, along 
with those of the basophils, are responsible for the symptoms of allergies. See 
also BASOPHILS, ALLERGIES, and IMMUNE SYSTEM.
MECHANICAL VENTILATION Use of a device called a ventilator to keep a person 
breathing when s/he is unable to breathe on her/his own.
MEGACE (Megesterol acetate) Made by Bristol-Myers Squibb, it is approved for the 
treatment of anorexia and cachexia associated with breast cancer. While not yet 
approved for AIDS, doctors have been using to treat anorexia and cachexia in 
people with AIDS for several years. See also ANOREXIA and CACHEXIA. 
MEGESTEROL ACETATE See MEGACE.
MEK See METHIONINE ENKEPHALIN.
MEK-ENK See METHIONINE ENKEPHALIN.
MEMORY CELLS T-cells that have been exposed to specific antigens and are able 
thereafter to proliferate upon repeat exposure to the same antigens. See also 
ANTIGENS, IMMUNE SYSTEM, and T-CELLS.
MENINGITIS Inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. 
See also CRYPTOCOCCAL MENINGITIS.
MESALIMINE Treatment for inflammatory bowel syndrome associated with AIDS and 
ARC made by Norwich Eaton. See also INFLAMMATORY BOWEL SYNDROME.
METABOLISM Chemical process that take place within the body. The energy required 
by an animal (including humans) for growth, maintenance and function is mainly 
derived from the oxidation (breakdown) of organic foodstuffs within the cells of 
the body. In general, "metabolism" is the term applied to the overall series of 
chemical reactions taking place within the body to produce energy. An example of 
this is found in our breathing in which oxygen is consumed (inhaled) and carbon 
dioxide is the end product (exhaled.).
METASTATIC Having to do with the transfer of a disease from one part of the body 
to another.
METHIONINE ENKEPHALIN Immune modulator currently being tested.
MICROBES General term describing microscopic, living organism, particularly 
pathogenic bacteria. MILK ANTIBODIES Shows possible use in treating 
cryptosporidiosis.
MITOGEN Substance that induces cell growth and division. 
mm3 Cubic millimeter.
MOLLUSUM CONTAGIOSUM Viral infection of the skin that is characterized by tiny 
bumps with depressed center. Usually treated by burning or freezing the 
individual bumps.
MOMORDICA CHARANTIA (CURCUBITACEAE, "Chinese bitter melon"). Traditional 
medicine and food in many Asian cultures. Extracts have been used by 
HIV-infected individuals both orally and by rectal infusion. Action: proteins 
capable of inhibiting HIV syncytial formation, a critical component in the 
pathogenesis of HIV. [EXPERIMENTAL]
MONOCLONAL Derived from a single cell; pertaining to a single clone.
MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES Antibodies produced in laboratory that are specific to a 
single antigen.
MONOCYTES Large white blood cell which acts as a scavenger, capable of 
destroying invading bacteria or other foreign material. It is a precursor to the 
macrophage. See also MACROPHAGE, and IMMUNE SYSTEM. 
MONOLAURIN Is an immune cofactors naturally present in breast milk. Studies have 
substantiated the efficacy of monolaurin as a safe (non-toxic) but potent 
anti-viral agent. This broad spectrum anti-viral, anti-microbial agent is being 
used by some persons with HIV infection. Efficacy in not yet conclusive.
MRI See MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING.
MSL-109 Monoclonal antibody made by Sandoz which is a possible treatment for 
Cytomegalovirus infection. See also CMV and MONOCLONAL ANTIBODY.
MUCOCUTANEOUS Anything that concerns or pertains to the mucus membranes and 
skin, for example the mouth, vagina, lips, and anal area. 
MYALGIA Pain in one or more muscles.
MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM INTERCELLULARE (MAI) In people with AIDS, it is an infection 
which begins in the gut and is similar to tuberculosis. Later in the course of 
AIDS, the infection usually spreads to many organs by way of the blood stream. 
The later stage, called invasive Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC), is 
associated with anemia and neutropenia, and may affect bone marrow. Symptoms 
include night sweats, high fever, cough, weight loss, general fatigue, 
malabsorption of food, and diarrhea. Early diagnosis of MIA, which often goes 
undiagnosed, is very important. HIV+ women get MAI disproportionately more than 
HIV+ men. See also MALABSORPTION, ANEMIA, IMMUNE SYSTEM, T-CELLS, and 
NEUTROPENIA.
MYCOPLASMA INCOGNITUS May be a major cause of illness in people with AIDS. It 
can infect many organs of the body including the brain, spleen, liver, or lymph 
nodes, as well as contributing to several systemic infections. The antibiotics 
doxycycline, tetracycline, clindamycin, lincomycin, and ciprofloxcin were found 
to be effective against it. It was discovered by Dr. Shyh-Ching Lo and 
colleagues at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Mycoplasma Incognitus was 
found in the thymus, liver, spleen, lymph nodes, or brain of 22 of the 34 person 
who died of AIDS in Dr. Lo's study. The patients selected for this autopsy study 
all showed evidence of organ failure. In a separate study with different 
patients, the mycoplasma was found in seven of MYCOPLASMA INCOGNITUS the ten 
persons who had died. also, a much earlier study had found Mycoplasma Incognitus 
in the blood lymphocytes of 12 of 232 living persons with AIDS, but in none of 
22 healthy blood donors used as controls. See also ANTIBIOTICS.
MYCOSIS Any disease caused by a fungus.
MYCOSTATIN
PASTILLE (Nystatin) Prophylaxis for oral candidiasis made by Bristol-Myers 
Squibb. See also CANDIDIASIS.
MYELOMA Cancer of antibody producing cells in the bone marrow.
MYLEOSUPRESSIVE Used to describe something, usually a medication, which 
suppresses the bone marrow's production of red and white blood cells. See also 
RED BLOOD CELLS, WHITE BLOOD CELLS, and BONE MARROW.
N-ACETYLCYSTEINE See NAC.
NAC (N-ACETYLCYSTEINE) Drug widely used in Europe to treat bronchitis and in the 
U.S. to treat Tylenol overdose. It inhibits HIV in vitro by raising glutathione 
levels in HIV infected blood cells. Glutathione may play a role in lymphocyte 
activation. Glutathione levels are depressed in HIV infected individuals. It has 
been suggested that increasing glutathione levels may also reduce high levels of 
Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), which have been associated with accelerated HIV 
replication as well as wasting syndrome. On the high-priority list for study at 
the NIH, but currently widely available through Buyers' Clubs. See also TNF, 
WASTING SYNDROME, and HIV.
NALTREXONE Narcotic antagonist made by DuPont under the trade name TREXAN R. 
Some researchers believe that using small amounts may help re-establish the 
normal regulation of certain immune functions by increasing endorphine levels 
and sensitivity of the endorphine receptor sites on white blood cells, it also 
appears to reduce chronically high levels of alpha interferon for many patients. 
See also ALPHA INTERFERON, ENDORPHINES, and WHITE BLOOD CELLS.
NANOMOLE One billionth (10 ) of a mole (molecular weight).
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF HEALTH See NIH.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES One part of the NIH which 
is very important for AIDS research. It supports basic research, epidemiology, 
and natural history studies, blood screening tests, drug discovery and 
development, vaccine development and testing, and treatment studies, some 
directly and some through contracts and cooperative agreements with other 
institutions. It administers the AIDS Clinical Trial Group (ACTG) network of 
testing units at hospitals around the country and the Community programs for 
Clinical Research on AIDS (CPCRA), a community-based network os AIDS treatment 
research centers. See also NIH, ACTG, and CPCRA.
NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE (NCI) One part of the NIH. Because of the prevalence 
of Kaposi's Sarcoma and lymphomas in AIDS, the NCI has been deeply involved in 
AIDS research. It was the NCI's Dr. Sam Broder who discovered AZT's retroviral 
powers. See also AZT, KAPOSI'S SARCOMA, and LYMPHOMA, and NIH.
NATURAL KILLER CELLS Large granular lymphocytes that attack and destroy tumor 
cells and infected body cells. They are known as "natural" killers because they 
attack without first requiring activation by other immune system components. 
NCI See NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE.
NDA See NEW DRUG APPLICATION.
NEBUPENT Aerosol pentamidine isethionate, made by Fujisawa, approved by the FDA 
under the Orphan Drug Act as a prophylaxis for PCP. See also FDA, ORPHAN DRUG, 
and PCP.
NEONATAL Concerning the first weeks of life after birth. 
NEOPLASM Abnormal and uncontrolled growth of tissue; a tumor.
NEPHROTOXIC Poisonous to the kidneys.
NEUPOGEN See G-CSF.
NEURALGIA Sharp shooting pain along a nerve pathway.
NEUROLOGIC Concerning the central nervous system or the peripheral nervous 
system and/or diseases of these systems. See also CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, and 
PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM.
NEUROLOGICAL
DISORDER Disorders of the nervous system. They can effect the central nervous 
system, like dementia, or the peripheral nervous system. like neuropathy. See 
also CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, and PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM. 
NEUROLOGICAL See NEUROLOGIC.
NEUROPATHY Name given to a group of disorders involving nerves whose symptoms 
range from a tingling sensation or numbness in the toes and fingers to a 
paralysis. It is estimated that 35% of all people with AIDS have some form of 
neuropathy. Peripheral Neuropathy refers to neuropathy of the peripheral nervous 
system. 
NEURO-RADIOLOGICAL Pertaining to the study of the nervous system with x-rays.
NEUTRALIZATION Process by which an antibody binds to specific antigens, thereby 
neutralizing the invader.
NEUTROPENIA Shortage of neutrophils, the most common type of white blood cells.
NEUTROPHIL Most common type of white blood cell. They engulf and kill foreign 
microorganisms and are the immune system's primary defense against bacterial 
infections. The normal range for neutrophils on a CBC is from 3000 to 7000. See 
also CBC, IMMUNE SYSTEM, and WHITE BLOOD CELL.
NEW DRUG APPLICATION (NDA) Upon completing Phase III clinical trials and before 
the drug can be prescription or over the counter sale, a drug sponsor must file 
an NDA with the FDA. The NDA typically runs thousands of pages which includes 
the chemical analysis of the drug, a theory of how it works, its stated purpose, 
results of animal and human trials and prospective and marketing details. FDA 
review and approval of an NDA often takes 2 to 3 years. See also FDA and DRUG 
APPROVAL PROCESS.
NIAID See National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
NIGHT SWEATS Extreme sweating which happens during sleep. Night sweats are 
considered a symptom of HIV only when the body is drenched with so much sweat 
that you need to change the sheets.
NIH (National Institutes of Health) Mandated by the Randall Act of 1930. Its job 
was to "determine the cause, prevention, and cure of disease." Today there are 
twelve constituent institutes, several research and support divisions and a 
National Library of Medicine. Since most basic research and much applied 
biomedical research in the US is funded by the NIH, most of it private 
institutions, the NIH now sets the nation's research agenda. While all twelve 
institutes are involved in some AIDS research, treatment research is 
concentrated at the NCI and, especially, NIAID. See also NIAID and NCI.
NIZORIL (Ketoconazole suspension) Drug made by Jannsen which is a treatment for 
candida infections of the throat which is currently being tested. See also 
CANDIDA.
NUCLEIC ACID Large naturally occurring molecules composed of sugar, phosphate, 
and chemical building blocks called nucleosides. There are two types of nucleic 
acids: RNA and DNA. See also RNA and DNA.
NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG Copy of a nucleoside. These manufactured analogs may be able 
to inhibit the growth of many viruses, including HIV. When incorporated into DNA 
during virus production, the analog may act to block viral production. The 
nucleoside analog ddI, for example, works by slowing HIV production, whereas 
Vidarabine, another analog works by slowing Herpes Simplex virus production. See 
also HERPES SIMPLEX, HIV, AMINO ACID, and DNA.
NUCLEOSIDE Amino acids that are the building Blocks of DNA. There are four amino 
acids: Adenine, Cytosine, Thymine, and Guanine. See also DNA.
NYSTATIN See MYCOSTATIN PASTILLE.
O/I (or OI) See OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTION.
OCULAR Relating to the eye.
OFF-LABEL See PRESCRIPTION DRUG.
ONCOLOGY Study of cancer or tumors.
OPEN Refers to the status of a drug trial. A trial is open when doctors and 
subjects know whether the subject is receiving a drug or a placebo as opposed to 
a double blind trial in which neither is supposed to know until the trial has 
ended. See also DOUBLE BLIND STUDY.
OPEN LABEL TRIAL (Non-masked or Non-randomized Trial) Drug trial in which both 
the researchers and the subjects know what drug is being administered and at 
what dose.
OPEN LABEL CONTINUED USE Relatively common process in drug testing by which 
certain patients can obtain an experimental drug after a trial has been 
completed. Continued use, as it is commonly known, is an FDA approved follow-up 
protocol which a participant may join if s/he wants to stay on a drug and no 
adverse reactions have occurred and the researcher sees some benefit from the 
drug's continued use.
OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTION Illness caused by a an organism that normally does not 
cause disease in a person with a healthy immune system. When an individual's 
immune system becomes weak, these organisms may cause serious or 
life-threatening illness. Some examples of OI's are: CMV, MAI, and PCP. See also 
IMMUNE SYSTEM. 
OPTIC NEURITIS Sudden loss of vision from infection of the optic nerve. 
OPTIC NERVE Nerve at the back of the eye that carries visual impulses from 
retina to brain.
ORAL ALPHA INTERFERON Proposed AIDS treatment made famous by a study in Kenya in 
which tiny amounts of alpha interferon were taken orally, rather than the usual 
treatment of very large doses injected under the skin (subcutaneous injection). 
Many experts are skeptical of the validity of the results of the trial since it 
is not clear how taking the drug orally can work. The mouth lacks the right 
receptors to take the drug into the body and the drug is supposedly destroyed by 
digestive enzymes. See also ALPHA INTERFERON.
ORBIT Bony cavity of the skull that contains the eyeball and its associated 
structures.
ORNIDYL EFLORNITHINE Treatment for Pneumocystis pneumonia that was withdrawn 
from study at the request of Merrel Dow the manufacturer. See also PCP.
OROPHARYNGEAL Relating to the central portion of the pharynx, the passageway for 
air and food from the mouth to the esophagus.
ORPHAN DRUG HHS designation of a drug that facilitates its development for a 
"rare disease of condition which affects less than 200,000 people: (as of the 
date the application is made) and for certain other designations. The patent is 
then valid for seven years from the time of NDA approval, and it prohibits any 
other company from investing the drug. Examples of drugs which were granted 
Orphan Drug Status include AZT and IV Pentamidine, a drug originally developed 
in the 1950's for malaria which fell out of use until its use against PCP. See 
also AZT, IV PENTAMIDINE, FDA, APPROVAL PROCESS, and NDA. 
OTITIS MEDIA Inflammation of the middle ear.
p24 ANTIBODY Antibody formed in response to exposure to HIV. The p24 antibody 
test measures the amount of antibodies in the blood against the p24 antigen. See 
also HIV and RETROVIRUS.
p24 ANTIGEN Core protein fragment of HIV. The p24 antigen test measures this 
fragment, and a positive result on this test suggest active HIV replication. See 
also HIV, LATENCY, and DORMANT.
PALLIATIVE Offering relief from symptoms, but not a cure. 
PANCREAS Organ attached to the small intestine, just past the stomach, which 
secretes proteins (digestive enzymes) into the intestine to help digest foods.
PANCREATITIS Inflammation of the pancreas which can result in severe abdominal 
pain. Pancreatitis can be a side effect of a drug, but it can also occur for 
other reasons such as gallstones, viral infection, or excessive alcohol intake. 
Amylase, a pancreatic enzyme, needs to be closely monitored when this condition 
is present.
PANDEMIC Epidemic that is wide spread.
PAPILLEDEMA Swelling of the optic nerve caused by increased pressure within the 
brain; usually presents with a minor, transient visual loss.
PARALLEL TRACK System of distributing experimental drugs which have completed 
Phase I testing to patients who are unable to participate in ongoing clinical 
efficacy trials. See also FDA
PARAPLEGIA Paralysis of both legs and the lower part of the body.
PARESTHESIA Abnormal physical sensations.
PASSIVE IMMUNOTHERAPY Treatment for HIV infection in which plasma HIV+ but 
asymptomatic donors is processed to inactivate HIV and the infused into people 
whose immune systems have been weakened by HIV infection. The plasma donors are 
selected for high levels of HIV neutralizing antibodies. See also HIV, IMMUNE 
SYSTEM, and ASYMPTOMATIC SEROPOSITIVE.
PATHOGEN Any microorganism capable of causing illness. 
PBMC Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells.
PCP See PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII PNEUMONIA.
PCR See POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION.
PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE (PID) Condition caused the spread of infection from 
the vagina to the pelvic cavity. Can be a disseminated form of TB in HIV+ women.
PENTAM 300 Intravenous pentamidine isethionate, made by Fujisawa, approved by 
the FDA as treatment of pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. See also PNEUMOCYSTIS 
CARINII PNEUMONIA.
PENTAMIDINE ISETHIONATE Drug made by Fujisawa and approved by the FDA as 
treatment and prophylaxis of pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. The aerosol form 
for prophylaxis is marketed as NebuPent, and the intravenous form for treatment 
marketed as Pentam 300. Because Fujisawa's versions are very expensive, imported 
aerosol pentamidine is available through buyer's clubs at much reduced costs. 
See also PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII PNEUMONIA 
PENTOSAN Sulfated polysaccharide currently being studied 
POLYSULFATE at the NCI as a possible treatment for Kaposi's Sarcoma. See also 
NCI, KAPOSI'S SARCOMA, and POLYSACCHARIDE.
PEPTIDE Two or more chemically-linked amino acids. See also AMINO ACID. 
PEPTIDE-T (d-ala-peptide T) Drug manufactured by Peninsula Labs which consists 
of a chain of 8 amino acids which appears to block the entry of HIV into cells 
bearing the CD4 receptor, a passageway to which HIV is strongly attracted. In 
that regard, Peptide T is similar to the drug CD4. Peptide T easily enters the 
brain and has been associated with improvement of neurological symptoms of HIV 
infection. The several Phase I trials that have involved Peptide T have shown 
that the drug is not toxic and that it helps to improve the patient's CD4 count. 
See also CD4, HIV, IMMUNE SYSTEM, AMINO ACID, and BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER.
PERINATAL Events that occur at or around the time of birth.
PERIPHERAL Usually refers to the part of the nervous system outside the brain 
and spinal cord, but is also used to refer to anything "farther out" on the 
body, such as the arms, legs, hands, and feet. 
PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY Disorder of the nerves, usually involving the feet or 
hands, and sometimes the legs and arms. Symptoms may include numbness, a 
tingling or burning sensation, sharp pain, weakness, and abnormal reflexes. In 
severe cases, paralysis may occur. See also PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM.
PGL (Persistent Generalized Lymphadenopathy) Body lymph nodes swell during 
infection. PGL in HIV infection is a condition in which lymph nodes are 
chronically swollen in at least two areas of the body for three months or more. 
An enlarged spleen also indicates PGL.
PHAGOCYTE White blood cells that can engulf and digest foreign bodies or debris 
such as bacteria or degenerating tissue. Macrophanges are one kind of phagocyte. 
See also WHITE BLOOD CELL, MACROPHANGES, and BACTERIA.
PHARMACOKINETICS Study of how a drug is processed by the body, the extent and 
rate of its absorption, its distribution and location in tissues, and how it is 
excreted. The information is used in determining the best route of 
administration, dosage, and dosing schedule. See also ABSORPTION. 
PHASE I (of FDA mandated clinical trials) Toxicity and dose finding studies on a 
small group of humans. These trials seek to establish a safe dose range for the 
drug, to gather information on how it is absorbed, distributed within tissue, 
metabolized and excreted from the body, and how long a single acts on the body. 
These trials are usually completed within a year and involve a small number of 
research subjects. See also FDA, NDA, and APPROVAL PROCESS.
PHASE II (of FDA mandated clinical trials) Stage at which drug effectiveness is 
established. They are supposed to be designed to detect any major adverse 
reactions. Proceeds only if Phase I studies show toxicity to be within 
acceptable levels. Usually involves 50-300 volunteers. See also FDA, NDA, 
APPROVAL PROCESS.
PHASE III (of FDA mandated clinical trials) Expansion of Phase II study to 
include between 300 and 3000 volunteers. They are designed to back up 
information gathered in Phase I and II testing. also designed to compare the 
drug to other agents, either alone or in combination, detect side effects that 
occur rarely or over a long period of time of treatment. Phase III trials may 
last several years. See also FDA, NDA, and APPROVAL PROCESS. 
PHENYTOIN Treatment for all forms of epilepsy.
PHLEBOTOMIST Individual trained and skilled in phlebotomy. 
PHLEBOTOMY Incision into a vein for the purpose of drawing blood.
PHN See POSTHERPETIC NEURALGIA.
PHOTOPHORESIS Antiviral treatment in which a patient receives an oral dose of 
8-methoxypsoralen, a photoactive (literally "active when exposed to light") 
chemical. Blood is then removed from the patient and her/his white blood cells 
exposed to ultraviolet A light. The blood is the reinfused (put back) into the 
patient. The treatment is repeated once or twice per month. A very small study 
of 5 patients showed that this treatment helps to reduce night sweats and fever, 
eliminates lymphadenopathy, and to increase the percentage of T-helper cells and 
reduce levels of p24 antigen. The FDA has approved a request for further studies 
of this treatment. See also LYMPHADENOPATHY, p24 ANTIGEN, and T-HELPER CELLS.
PHS (Public Health Service) Branch of the federal government's Depart of Health 
and Human Services that plays a primary role in defining the federal response to 
a health emergency. The PHS is comprised of number a number of agencies 
including the NIH, FDA, CDC, and ADAMHA. These agencies are at the center of the 
federal health research establishment. See also FDA, NIH, CDC, ADAMHA, and HHS.
PI See PROJECT INFORM and PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR.
PID See PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE.
PLACEBO CONTROLLED STUDY Method of drug investigation in which a placebo is 
given to one group of patients, while the drug being tested is given to another 
group. The results obtained in both groups are then compared. See also PARALLEL 
TRACK, and DOUBLE-BLIND STUDY.
PLACEBO EFFECT Change that occurs after a placebo is taken due to the 
expectation of the patient.
PLACEBO Inert (inactive) substance against which investigational treatments are 
compared for efficacy. See also PARALLEL TRACK, OPEN LABEL, PLACEBO CONTROLLED 
STUDY, and DOUBLE-BLIND STUDY.
PLAQUENIL (Hydoxychloroquine) Possible treatment for HIV infection. This drug is 
approved for the treatment of malaria, lupus erythematosis, and rheumatoid 
arthritis. It is hypothesized that the drug concentrates in lymphocytes and 
neutralizes acid in the cytoplasm. Since the glycoprotein viruses such as HIV 
require an scidified environment to infect a cell, neutralizing the acid within 
the cell may inhibit the virus' infectivity, A small test showed after treatment 
T-cells and monocytes were protected from HIV infection 73% of the time. See 
also HIV, and T-CELLS.
PLASMA CELLS Cells derived from B-cells that produce antibodies. See also WHITE 
BLOOD CELLS.
PLASMA 10% of the blood that contains nutrients, electrolytes (dissolved salts), 
gases, albumin, clotting factors, wastes, and hormones. See also CBC and RED 
BLOOD CELLS.
PLASMAPHERESIS Selective removal of certain proteins or antibodies from the 
blood. This process is sometimes used in the treatment of some peripheral 
neuropathies and is an integral part of passive immunotherapies for HIV. See 
also PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY, HIV, IMMUNE SYSTEM, and PASSIVE IMMUNOTHERAPY.
PLATELET COUNT Number of platelet normally found in the blood. Normally there 
are 2,000,000 to 300,000 platelet in one cubic centimeter of blood. See also 
WHITE BLOOD CELLS and CBC.
PLATELET Circulating cellular fragments critical for blood clotting and sealing 
wounds. See also WHITE BLOOD CELLS.
PLWA Person (or People) Living With AIDS.
PML (Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy) Serious AIDS-related viral 
infection frequently misdiagnosed as Toxoplasmosis or other central nervous 
system disorders. It has been widely, and wrongly, considered to be untreatable. 
See also TOXOPLASMOSIS.
PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII PNEUMONIA (PCP) Common parasite which grows rapidly in 
lungs of people with AIDS and is the leading cause of death in AIDS. Sometimes, 
though rarely, PCP infections may occur elsewhere in the body, for example in 
the skin eyes, spleen, liver, or heart. Drugs which are effective against PCP 
infection include pentamidine, Bactrim (also called Septra), Dapsone and 
trimetrexate with leucovorin. Drugs which may provide effective PCP prophylaxis 
are Dapsone, aerosol pentamidine, and Bactrim. See also BACTRIM, DAPSONE, 
PRIMAQUINE, and PENTAMIDINE.
PNEUMOPENT See AEROSOL PENTAMIDINE ISETHIONATE.
PNEUMOVAX Vaccine which protects against 23 strains of pneumococcus (bacterial) 
pneumonia.
POLYCLONAL Having an origin in more than one type of ancestor cell. Opposite of 
Monoclonal. See also MONOCLONAL.
POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION (PCR) Technique which multiplies small bits of DNA to 
detect HIV lurking in a tiny fraction of a person's cells.
POLYNEUROPATHY Disease in which several peripheral nerves are affected at the 
same time.
POLYSACCHARIDES Combination of two or more sugar molecules.
POSTHERPETIC NEURALGIA (PHN) Chronic pain syndrome that can occur after an 
outbreak of herpes zoster resolves. See also HERPES ZOSTER. 
PRE-CLINICAL First stage of drug testing done only in the test tube and in 
animals.
PREDNISONE Synthetic Corticosteroid sometimes used in the treatment of 
neuropathies. Like all corticosteroids it is immunosuppressive. See also 
NEUROPATHY.
PRESCRIPTION DRUG Drug which is approved by the FDA for marketing in the U.S. 
The drug is labelled (approved) for use against a specific conditions. 
Physicians can prescribe the drug for other conditions (off-label); drugs 
prescribed this way usually will not be paid for by Medicare, Medicaid or 
insurance companies. See also FDA, APPROVAL PROCESS
PRIMAQUINE Anti-malarial prophylaxis used in combination with Clindamycin to 
treat pneumocystis in those intolerant to or failing other therapies. It is FDA 
approved but must be imported from England as the U.S. manufacturer ran out of 
the precursor and the Center for Disease Control bought the existing stock for 
use in the prophylaxis of malaria. See also PRESCRIPTION DRUG, FDA, APPROVAL 
PROCESS, and PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII PNEUMONIA.
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) Doctor of researcher who is in charge of a 
particular drug trial.
PRODOME Symptom that indicates the onset of a disease. 
PRODRUG Drug which is metabolized into another drug after absorption into the 
body.
PROGRESSIVE MULTIFOCAL LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY See PML. 
PROJECT INFORM (PI) San Francisco based organization which disseminates 
information about HIV public policy issues and treatments for HIV infection and 
it's associated opportunistic infections. See also HIV and OPPORTUNISTIC 
INFECTION.
PROLEUKIN See INTERLEUKIN-2.
PROLIFERATION Growth or multiplication of something In this context, the growth 
or proliferation of cells, healthy or not.
PROPHYLAXIS Treatment intended to preserve health and prevent the spread of 
disease. For example, aerosolized pentamidine has effectiveness as a prophylaxis 
against PCP. See also AEROSOLIZED PENTAMIDINE and PCP.
PROTEASE INHIBITORS Class of drugs which may interfere with HIV replication. 
Protease is the first HIV protein whose three-dimensional structure has been 
characterized. HIV infected cells produce large polyproteins which are the 
precursors of the individual components of HIV. Protease cleaves (divides) the 
large polyproteins thereby separating the final building blocks for viral 
assembly. If the precursor proteins are not processed by the protease enzyme, 
nonfunctional, non-infectious virons are formed and the replication process 
stops. Knowledge of the structure of protease allows researchers to develop 
drugs specifically designed to inhibit protease.
PROTEINS Organic compounds made up of amino acids. See also AMINO ACIDS. 
PROTOCOL Detailed plan which states a clinical trial's rationale, goal, and 
hypothesis, as well as the drugs involved, dosage levels, methods of 
administration, treatment durations, who may participate, their disease and its 
severity. it often list inclusion and exclusion criteria. Protocols must be 
approved by an institution's Institutional Review Board. See also 
INCLUSION/EXCLUSION CRITERIA, INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD, CLINICAL TRIAL, 
APPROVAL PROCESS, and FDA.
PROTOZOA One group of microscopic organisms, many of which can cause disease 
when they infect someone. For example, amoebas are protozoa which can infect the 
gastrointestinal tract and cause severe diarrhea. See also IMMUNE SYSTEM and 
GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT.
PULMONARY Pertaining to the lungs.
PURINE NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG Substances which are the variants of two purine 
nucleosides found in nature called 2-deoxy-adenosine and 2-deoxy-guanosine. 
These products along with two pyrimidine nucleosides (thymidine and 
2-deoxy-cytidine) are the building blocks of DNA, the genetic material. 
Laboratory manufactured analogs may inhibit the growth of many viruses including 
HIV. When incorporated into DNA during virus production, the analog may act to 
block viral production. the purine nucleoside analog ddI works by slowing HIV 
production whereas Vidarabine, another analog, works by slowing Herpes Simplex 
virus production. See also VIDARABINE, ddI, NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG, DNA, PYRIMIDINE 
NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG, HIV, and AMINO ACID.
PWA Person (or People) With AIDS.
PWARC Person (or People) With AIDS Related Complex.
PYRIMETHAMINE (trade name Daraprim) Antimalarial drug, made by 
Burroughs-Wellcome, used in conjunction with sulfadoxine or another sulfa drug 
for treatment of toxoplasmosis. A formulation of pyrimethamine and sulfadoxine 
is called Fansidar. See also FANSIDAR and TOXOPLASMOSIS.
PYRIMIDINE NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG Substances which are modified variants of two 
pyrimidine nucleosides (thymidine or cytidine) found in nature. 
2-deoxy-adenosine, 2-deoxy-guanosine, 2-deoxy-cytidine and thymidine are the 
building blocks of DNA, the basic genetic material. Man-made pyrimidine 
nucleoside analogs such as AZT, ddC, and D4t inhibit the growth of HIV in a 
similar way to purine nucleoside analogs. See also AZT, ddC, ddI, D4T, DNA, and 
AMINO ACIDS.
PYRITREXIM Possible treatment for pneumocystis pneumonia which is manufactured 
by Burroughs-Wellcome. See also PCP.
RADIATION THERAPY Treatment for malignant diseases using radiation to kill 
affected cells.
RANDOMIZED TRIAL See RANDOMIZED DOSAGE.
RANDOMIZED DOSAGE Trial in which people are divided into groups which receive 
varying doses of the drug being studied. Which group receives which dose is 
determined by computer, not by the people running the trial. See also FDA.
rCD4 (Recombinant Soluble Human CD4) Genentech has developed a recombinant form 
of CD4 with a viral protein of HIV known as GP120. The result of a man-made 
antibody that may attach itself to HIV and prevent it from destroying T-Cells. 
This development may make possible a drug that could be administered regularly 
which would not necessarily cure AIDS, but may render the HIV harmless. 
Development of the drug has been stymied because CD4 remains in the bloodstream 
for too short a time, although the addition of IgG (Immunoglobulin gamma) 
appears to lengthen the active life of the drug. This formulation is called 
CD4-IgG. See IMMUNE SYSTEM, IgG, HIV, RECOMBINANT, and GP120. 
RECHALLENGE Giving a drug a second time after a patient has not responded to it 
or has experienced serious side effects from it.
RECOMBINANT DNA Highly technical way of making exact copies of a substance. The 
DNA of certain cells is changed so that they become "factories" that make 
whatever substance is desired. Recombinant DNA technology is usually used to 
make large amounts of things that are found in the body, such as insulin. In 
AIDS research, a number of compounds, such as CD4, alpha interferon, gamma 
interferon, and GM-CSF are made by this method.
REITER'S SYNDROME Autoimmune disease that sometimes appears in young men with 
AIDS.
RECOMBINANT Produced by genetic engineering.
REMISSION Lessening of the severity or duration of outbreaks, or the abatement 
of symptoms altogether over time.
RENAL Relating to the kidneys.
RESISTANCE Ability to overcome the inhibiting effects of a drug or disease. If 
an organism is no longer effected to the same degree by a disease or drug it is 
said to be resistent to the drug or disease.
RETINA Light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that transmits visual 
impulses via the optic nerve to the brain.
RETINAL DISEASE Any infection which occurs in the inner most layer of the 
eyeball. See also RETINOPATHY.
RETINAL DETACHMENT Occurs as a consequence of disease when the retina thins and 
develops holes that allow vitreous to elevate the retina causing a loss of 
vision.
RETINITIS Inflammation of the retina, linked in AIDS to CMV and HSV infections. 
If left untreated, it usually leads to blindness. Drugs which combat it include 
DHPG and Foscarnet for CMV and Acyclovir for HSV. See also CMV, HSV, DHPG and 
FOSCARNET, and ACYCLOVIR.
RETINOPATHY Any non-inflammatory disease of the retina. 
RETROVIR See AZT
RETROVIRUS Virus which replicates using the reverse of the usual process. Normal 
viruses have DNA cores and replicate via RNA, much like your body's own cells. 
Retroviruses, such as HIV, replicate by copying their own RNA into the DNA of 
the host using an enzyme discovered in the mid 1970s by Dr. Robert Gallo called 
reverse transcriptase. See also RNA, DNA, HIV, IMMUNE SYSTEM, REVERSE 
TRANSCRIPTASE, and VIRUS.
REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE Viral enzyme that transcribes viral RNA into DNA so that 
the genetic material of the virus can be integrated into the genetic material of 
the T-helper cell. In other words, and enzyme secreted by a retrovirus which 
pulls the DNA of the host cell into the configuration of the viral RNA turning 
the host into an assembly line factory for making more retroviruses. See also 
RNA, DNA, RETROVIRUS, and IMMUNE SYSTEM.
Rh-FACTOR See Rh-POSITIVE.
Rh-NEGATIVE See Rh-POSITIVE.
Rh-POSITIVE (Rhesus Factor Positive) Red blood cells of individuals are one of 
four types (labeled A, B, O, and AB) depending on the types of proteins on these 
cells. Rh Factor is one of the proteins which are present in red blood cells. 
Individuals that have this factor are Rh-Positive, and those that do not are 
Rh-Negative. Babies born to Rh-Negative women may exhibit blood disease unless 
treated with Rho(D) immune globulin. See also RED BLOOD CELLS.
RHESUS FACTOR See Rh-POSITIVE.
RIBAVIRIN Nucleoside with broad spectrum antiviral activity. IN aerosol form it 
is an approved treatment for certain viral respiratory tact infections in young 
children. Ribavirin has been studied in people with AIDS, but the results were 
ambiguous. See also NUCLEOSIDE ANALOG and ANTIVIRAL.
RIBONUCLEIC ACID See RNA.
RIFABUTIN (Ansamycin) Manufactured by Adria, Rifabutin is thought to be useful 
as a prophylactic for MAC. See also MAI.
RIFAMPIN
RISK FACTORS Partly synthetic antibiotic with antibacterial and antitubercular 
activity Anything that increases the chances of HIV infection including: 
penile-vaginal, penile-anal, mouth-vaginal, and mouth-anal contact without a 
latex barrier; sharing needles or works which have been sterilized with a 
bleach-water solution; being born to an HIV-positive mother; and having a 
transfusion of HIV-infected blood.
RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) Most virus and all bacteria, plants, and animals have 
genetic codes made up of DNA which utilizes RNA to issues specific hormones and 
proteins. The genetic material of a retrovirus is the simpler RNA itself. HIV 
inserts its own RNA into the host cell's DNA preventing the host cell from 
carrying out its natural functions and turning it into a virus factory. See also 
DNA and IMMUNE SYSTEM.
ROFERON-A Interferon alpha 2a, manufactured by Hoffman-LaRoche and approved by 
the FDA as a treatment for Kaposi's Sarcoma. See also KAPOSI'S SARCOMA, FDA, and 
APPROVAL PROCESS.
ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION See ADMINISTRATION.
ROXITHROMYCIN Macrolide antibiotic once thought to be potentially effective for 
the treatment of cryptosporidiosis or toxoplasmosis. Disappointing trial results 
caused the manufacturer, Hoechst Roussell, to stop pursuing U.S. marketing under 
the trade name Rulid.
RULID See ROXITHROMYCIN.
SALICYLATES Drugs that are similar to aspirin. Used to relieve pain and to 
decrease inflammation.
SALK HIV IMMUNOGEN Vaccine for HIV developed by Dr. Jonas Salk developer of the 
Salk Polio Vaccine manufactured by Immunization Products. See also VACCINE and 
HIV. 
SALVAGE THERAPY Treatment for patients who are not responsive to or cannot 
tolerate other available treatments for a particular condition.
SANDOSTATIN (SOMATOSTATIN) Treatment for HIV-related diarrhea which is made by 
Sandoz.
SARCOMA Malignant tumor of the skin and soft tissue.
SCAVENGER CELLS Any of a diverse group of cells wit the capacity to engulf and 
destroy foreign material and dead tissue and cells.
SCD4 See CD4.
SCH 39304/42427 Drug from Schering-Plough with broad spectrum in vivo activity 
against aspergillosis, candidiasis, and cryptococcal meningitis. It is 20 times 
more effective than fluconazole and has a longer half life (60 hours in healthy 
humans). See also ASPERGILLOSIS, CANDIDIASIS, FLUCONAZOLE, and CRYPTOCOCCAL 
MENINGITIS.
SCINTILLATING
SCOTOMATA Condition, often occurring early in HIV infection, in which the 
patient sees colored, jagged, flashing lights in her/his peripheral vision with 
a central area of blurred vision.
SCLERA White portion of the eyeball.
SEIZURE Abnormal brain functioning, usually resulting from some disease process 
or permanent injury. It can lead to uncontrolled movements of the body called 
seizures. When these movements involve the whole body, in a random pattern, they 
are called convulsions.
SEPTRA See BACTRIM.
SEROCONVERSION Point at which antibodies become detectable or undetectable. In 
the case of HIV, it is either when a person changes from HIV-negative to 
HIV-positive (primarily adults), or when s/he changes from HIV-positive to 
HIV-negative (primarily children).
SEROPOSITIVE Having antibodies to HIV. See also ASYMPTOMATIC SEROPOSITIVE. 
SERUM GLUTAMIC PYRUVIC TRANSAMINASE See SGPT