Glossary

resistance – when the genetic structure of an organism (virus, bacteria, fungi etc) changes in a way that stops a drug from working. See mutation.

Changing treatment and drug resistance.

DNA – an abbreviation for the scientific word for genes and genetic material. It is the abbreviation for deoxyribonucleic acid. See RNA.

IRIS (immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome) – illnesses that occur when HIV treatment is started when the CD4 count is very low.

IRIS occurs because the immune system quickly becomes stronger and identifies infections that it was previously too weak to fight.

IRIS can occur in 1 in 4 (25%) people who start with a CD4 count under 50 cells/mm³.

Although the symtoms are serious, IRIS can usually be easily managed.

Common infections related to IRIS include TB and CMV.

adherence – taking your medicine at the right time each day and in the right way.

• Adherence and why it is so important.
• Adherence tips – easy ways to help.

prematurity (pregnancy) – when a baby is delivered after only 37 weeks or less.