Glossary

latent – not active at present, resting. Latently infected CD4 cells are CD4 cells that are infected with HIV but which are resting. HIV drugs do not work on resting cells.

Portacath – a small medical device fitted under the skin that allows injected drugs to have a more direct route to where they are needed.

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) –  type of viral load test.

lactic acidosis – dangerous build up of lactate in the blood.

lactate – waste product produced when sugar is turned into energy by the body.