HTLVIII, which stands for Human T-lymphotropic virus type III, is a term used to refer to a retrovirus that was initially believed to be a different strain of Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV). However, studies later revealed that HTLVIII was, in fact, a previously unidentified virus that was causing a distinct disease. This newly identified virus is now commonly referred to as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
HIV is a lentivirus, a subclass of retroviruses, known for its ability to infect and destroy specific cells of the immune system, particularly CD4+ T lymphocytes. HTLVIII or HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles/syringes, mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding, and blood transfusions with contaminated blood are all common modes of transmission.
Once inside the body, HIV progressively weakens and damages the immune system, making the individual susceptible to a wide range of opportunistic infections and diseases, ultimately leading to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV infection characterized by severe immune system dysfunction.
Although HTLVIII is an outdated term, it played a crucial role in the early research and identification of HIV. The discovery and subsequent understanding of this virus have paved the way for advancements in HIV prevention, treatment, and significant progress towards reducing the global impact of the disease.
