HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and HIV-associated diseases

The discovery of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the characterization of its molecular biology and the development of serologic methods for detecting antibodies have led to a better understanding of HIV-associated clinical syndromes. Recently, the Centre of Disease Control has proposed a classification of HIV-related conditions. This classification forms the basis for this review. It is completed by remarks on antiviral and immunomodulating drugs and its effects on HIV. Difficulties in development of vaccines are discussed.