Glossary

resistance tests – tests to show changes to HIV that are associated with drug resistance. Genotype resistance test looks for genetic changes. Phenotype resistance test see whether individual drugs are still active when placed in a test tube with HIV.

Resistance tests.

RITA – this is a type of HIV test that can indicate whether you recemtly became HIV positive. This is defined as being the last six months.

RITA stands for Recent Infection Treatment Algorithm. In the UK, this test is used to be called STARHS (Serological Testing Algorithm for Recent HIV Seroconversion).

It is also sometimes called a de-tuned or recency HIV test.

See this Q&A on RITA testing.

adefovir – anti-viral drug used to treat hepatitis B.

Cardiovascular refers to the heart and blood vessels.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the general term for disease to the heart and related blood vessels.

postpartum refers to the time after a baby is born. Postpartum refers to the mother.

See: antepartum and intrapartum.