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Entries for the website glossary.

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ACFID
Australian Council for International Development. ACFID is an independent national association of Australian non-government organisations (NGOs) working in the field of international aid and development. For further information, see the ACFID website.See also: AusAID
adverse event
An unwanted effect caused by the administration of drugs. Onset may be sudden or develop over time.See also: side effect
AFAO
Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations. AFAO is the peak non-government organisation representing Australia's community-based response to HIV/AIDS. AFAO's work includes education, policy, advocacy and international projects. For further information, see the AFAO website.
AFAP
Australian Foundation for the Peoples of Asia and the Pacific. AFAP is a non-profit, non-religious overseas aid organisation based in Sydney and making a positive difference to the lives of people throughout Africa, Asia and the Pacific. For further information, see the AFAP website.
AHAPI
AusAID HIV and AIDS Partnership Initiative.See also: AusAID
AHRN
Asian Harm Reduction Network.
ALT
alanine transaminase or alanine aminotransferase, an enzyme involved in the metabolism of the amino acid alanine. Elevated ALT levels in the blood may indicate liver injury or disease such as hepatitis. Also called SGPT (serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase).See also: hepatitis, liver
anaemia
A lower than normal number of red blood cells.
angina
temporary chest pain or a sensation of pressure due to a lack of oxygen supply to the heart. Also called angina pectoris.See also: atherosclerosis
antiretroviral
A medication or other substance which is active against retroviruses such as HIV.See also: antiviral, HAART
antiviral
A medication or substance which is active against one or more viruses. May include anti-HIV drugs, but these are more accurately termed antiretrovirals.See also: antiretroviral, HAART
APCASO
Asia-Pacific Council of AIDS Service Organizations. A network of non-government and community-based organisations that provide HIV/AIDS services within the Asia and the Pacific region. For further information see the APCASO website.See also: APPRC
APN+
Asia-Pacific Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS. For further information see the APN+ website.See also: GNP+, Igat Hope
APNSW
Asia Pacific Network of Sex Workers.
APPRC
Asia-Pacific PLWHA Resource Centre. For further information, see the APPRC website.See also: APCASO
ARC
(AIDS-RELATED COMPLEX) (Early Symptomatic HIV Infection) 1. A group of common complications found in early stage HIV infection. They include progressive generalized lymphadenopathy (PGL), recurrent fever, unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhea, herpes, hairy leukoplakia, fungus infection of the mouth and throat and/or the presence of HIV antibodies. 2. Symptoms that appear to be related to infection by HIV. They include an unexplained, chronic deficiency of white blood cells (leukopenia) or a poorly functioning lymphatic system with swelling of the lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) lasting for more than 3 months without the opportunistic infections required for a diagnosis of AIDS. (See Also AIDS WASTING SYNDROME).
ARCSHS
Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, part of La Trobe University in Melbourne. For further information see the ARCSHS website.
arm
Any of the treatment groups in a randomised trial. Most randomised trials have two "arms," but some have three "arms," or even more.See also: clinical trial, randomised
artery
a blood vessel which carries oxygenated blood away from the heart.See also: atherosclerosis, coronary artery
ASAP
AIDS Society of Asia and the Pacific. Independent, non-governmental body representing organisations from Asia and the Pacific working in close collaboration with experts in diverse areas of HIV/AIDS.
ASHM
Australasian Society for HIV Medicine. The peak Australasian organisation representing the medical and health sector in HIV/AIDS and related areas. For further information see the ASHM website.
aspergillosis
A fungal infection-resulting from the fungus Aspergillus-of the lungs that can spread through the blood to other organs. Symptoms include fever, chills, difficulty in breathing, and coughing up blood. If the infection reaches the brain, it may cause dementia.
atherosclerosis
(hardening of the arteries) ??? a disease in which fatty material accumulates on the interior lining of the arteries, causing it to become thicker and less elastic.See also: angina, artery
atypical pneumonia
a type of community-acquired pneumonia which does not respond to standard antibiotic treatments. As well as SARS, atypical pneumonias include psittacosis and Q fever.
AusAID
Australian Agency for International Development. Australian Government agency responsible for managing the Australian Government's official overseas aid program. For further information see the AusAID website.See also: ACFID, AHAPI
B cells
One of the two major classes of lymphocytes, B lymphocytes are blood cells of the immune system, derived from the bone marrow and spleen; they are involved in the production of antibodies. During infections, these cells are transformed into plasma cells that produce large quantities of antibody directed at specific pathogens. When antibodies bind to foreign proteins, such as those that occur naturally on the surfaces of bacteria, they mark the foreign cells for consumption by other cells of the immune system. This transformation occurs through interactions with various types of T cells and other components of the immune system. In persons living with AIDS, the functional ability of both the B and the T lymphocytes is damaged, with the T lymphocytes being the principal site of infection by HIV.
bacterium
A microscopic organism composed of a single cell. Many bacteria can cause disease in humans.See also: virus
baseline
1. Information gathered at the beginning of a study from which variations found in the study are measured. 2. A known value or quantity with which an unknown is compared when measured or assessed. 3. The initial time point in a clinical trial, just before a participant starts to receive the experimental treatment which is being tested. At this reference point, measurable values such as CD4 count are recorded. Safety and efficacy of a drug are often determined by monitoring changes from the baseline values.
bias
When a point of view prevents impartial judgment on issues relating to the subject of that point of view. In clinical studies, bias is controlled by blinding and randomization.
bilirubin
A breakdown product of red blood cells, bilirubin is removed from the bloodstream by the liver. High levels of bilirubin cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin) and may indicate hepatitis or other liver problems.See also: hepatitis, liver
bilirubin
A red pigment occurring in liver bile, blood, and urine. Its measurement can be used as an indication of the health of the liver. Bilirubin is the product of the breakdown of hemoglobin in red blood cells. It is removed from the blood and processed by the liver, which secretes it into the digestive tract. An elevated level of bilirubin in blood serum is an indication of liver disease or drug-induced liver impairment.See also: liver
bioavailability
The extent to which an oral medication is absorbed in the digestive tract and reaches the bloodstream, thereby permitting access to the site of action.
biopsy
Surgical removal of a piece of tissue from a living subject for microscopic examination to make a diagnosis (e.g., to determine whether abnormal cells such as cancer cells are present).
blind
A randomized trial is "Blind" if the participant is not told which arm of the trial he is on. A clinical trial is "Blind" if participants are unaware on whether they are in the experimental or control arm of the study; also called masked.See also: double-blind
blip
The transient detection of a viral load level after a period of time when viral load was undetectable. It is usually defined as a viral load of 50 to 500 copies/mL after viral load <50 copies/mL on at least two consecutive occasions.
blood-brain barrier
A selective barrier (obstacle) between circulating blood and brain tissues that prevents damaging substances from reaching the brain. Certain compounds readily cross the blood-brain barrier; others are completely blocked.
CARAM
Coordination of Action Research on AIDS and Mobility.
carbohydrate
Any of a number of compounds, including sugars and starches, which are important as sources of energy. Along with fat and protein, one of the main constituents of food.See also: triglyceride
cardiomyopathy
A progressive disorder, which can be the result of any of a number of diseases, that damages the muscular wall between the two lower chambers of the heart (the left and right ventricles).
cholesterol
An essential component of cell membranes and nerve fibre insulation, cholesterol is important for the metabolism and transport of fatty acids and the production of hormones and Vitamin D. Cholesterol is manufactured by the liver, and is also present in certain foods. High blood cholesterol levels have been linked to heart disease and may be a side effect of some anti-HIV medications.See also: lipid
clinical
Pertaining to or founded on observation and treatment of participants, as distinguished from theoretical or basic science.
clinical investigator
A medical researcher in charge of carrying out a clinical trial's protocol.
clinical trial
A clinical trial is a research study to answer specific questions about vaccines or new therapies or new ways of using known treatments. Clinical trials are used to determine whether new drugs or treatments are both safe and effective. Carefully conducted clinical trials are the fastest and safest way to find treatments that work in people. Trials are in four phases: Phase I tests a new drug or treatment in a small group; Phase II expands the study to a larger group of people; Phase III expands the study to an even larger group of people; and Phase IV takes place after the drug or treatment has been licensed and marketed. See also: arm, control group, Data Safety and Monitoring Board, dose-ranging, double-blind, intent-to-treat, open label, Phase I, Phase II, Phase III, protocol, randomised, randomised trial
cohort
In epidemiology, a group of individuals with some characteristics in common. A cohort study is a special kind of clinical trial which looks at a treatment or treatment strategy in a cohort of people.
complementary therapy
A broad range of healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies that Western (conventional) medicine does not commonly use to promote well-being or treat health conditions. Examples include acupuncture, herbs, Traditional Chinese Medicine, etc.
contraindication
A specific circumstance when the use of certain treatments could be harmful.
control group
A group of patients in a clinical trial who do not receive the drug or treatment being investigated, for the purpose of comparison with those who do. Participants in the control group of a clinical trial are either given standard treatment (excluding the drug being studied) or a placebo.See also: clinical trial, controlled trial, placebo
controlled trial
In clinical trials, one group of participants is given an experimental drug, while another group (i.e., the control group) is given either a standard treatment for the disease or a placebo.See also: control group
coronary artery
One of the two arteries that supply the heart with oxygenated blood.See also: artery
coronavirus
A genus of viruses of the family _Coronaviridae_ which look like coronas or halos when viewed with a microscope. Coronaviruses can cause hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) in mice, gastroenteritis (inflammation of the digestive system) in pigs, and respiratory infections in birds and people.See also: virus
Data Safety and Monitoring Board
An independent committee, composed of community representatives and clinical research experts, that reviews data while a clinical trial is in progress to ensure that participants are not exposed to undue risk. A DSMB may recommend that a trial be stopped if there are safety concerns or if the trial objectives have been achieved.See also: clinical trial
dentine
The hard tissue from which the bulk of each tooth is made. The dentine covers the root of the tooth, and is protected by a hard layer of enamel. Dentine is extremely sensitive to hot and cold — if the enamel layer wears away or thins, tooth sensitivity occurs.
diabetes
[Diabetes mellitus] A disorder in which sugars in the diet cannot be metabolised into energy due to a lack of the enzyme insulin. Late-onset diabetes mellitus may be a long-term side effect of some anti-HIV drugs.See also: insulin resistance
diagnostic trial
A clinical trial that is are conducted to find better tests or procedures for diagnosing a particular disease or condition. Diagnostic trials usually include people who have signs or symptoms of the disease or condition being studied.
dose-ranging
A clinical trial in which two or more doses of an agent (such as a drug) are tested against each other to determine which dose works best and is least harmful.See also: clinical trial
double-blind
A clinical trial design in which neither the participating individuals nor the study staff knows which participants are receiving the experimental drug and which are receiving a placebo (or another therapy). Double-blind trials are thought to produce objective results, since the expectations of the doctor and the participant about the experimental drug do not affect the outcome; also called double-masked study.See also: blind, clinical trial
drug class
A group of anti-HIV drugs with the same target of action. Anti-HIV drug classes include nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors, as well as several others. Combining drugs from three or more classes is the basis of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART).See also: HAART, nucleoside analogue, protease inhibitor, reverse transcriptase inhibitor
drug-drug interaction
A modification of the effect of a drug when administered with another drug. The effect may be an increase or a decrease in the action of either substance, or it may be an adverse effect that is not normally associated with either drug.
efficacy
(Of a drug or treatment). The maximum ability of a drug or treatment to produce a result regardless of dosage. A drug passes efficacy trials if it is effective at the dose tested and against the illness for which it is prescribed. In the standard procedure, Phase II clinical trials gauge efficacy, and Phase III trials confirm it.
empirical
Based on experimental data, not on a theory.
enamel
The extremely hard covering on the exterior of the teeth.
endpoint
Overall outcome that a clinical trial protocol is designed to evaluate. Common endpoints are severe toxicity, disease progression, or death.
enrolment
The act of signing up participants into a study. Generally this process involves evaluating a participant with respect to the eligibility criteria of the study and going through the informed consent process.
epidemiology
The branch of medical science that deals with the study of incidence and distribution and control of a disease in a population.
ethics
(In clinical trials) The process of determining that a proposed clinical trial conforms to a wide range of moral, scientific and ethical standards, to ensure that participants in the trial are not abused, mistreated or unfairly taken advantage of. Before a clinical trial can go ahead, it must be given approval via an independent ethics process.
exclusion criteria
The medical or social standards determining whether a person may be disqualified from entering a clinical trial. These criteria are based on such factors as age, gender, the type and stage of a disease, previous treatment history, and other medical conditions. It is important to note that inclusion and exclusion criteria are not used to reject people personally, but rather to identify appropriate participants and keep them safe.See also: inclusion criteria
experimental
(Of a drug) Not licensed for use in humans, or as a treatment for a particular condition. Experimental drugs are studied in clinical trials to determine their safety and efficacy, and are sometimes made available via Special Access Schemes prior to their approval.
Food and Drug Administration
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services agency responsible for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of all drugs, biologics, vaccines, and medical devices, including those used in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HIV infection, AIDS, and AIDS-related opportunistic infections. The FDA also works with the blood banking industry to safeguard the nation's blood supply. The Australian equivalent is the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).See also: TGA
gene
The most basic unit of genetic information.
gingivitis
Inflammation of the gums (the gingiva) caused by poor oral hygiene. Chronic gingivitis can worsen to become periodontal disease.See also: periodontal disease, plaque
GNP+
Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS. Based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, GNP+ is a global network of and by positive people, working to improve the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS. For further information, see the GNP+ website.See also: APN+
HAART
Highly Active AntiRetroviral Therapy ??? aggressive treatment of HIV infection using several different drugs together.See also: antiretroviral, antiviral, drug class, nucleoside analogue, protease inhibitor
HBV
Hepatitis B virusSee also: HCV, hepatitis
HCV
Hepatitis C virus.See also: HBV, hepatitis
hepatitis
Any inflammation of the liver. It is usually caused by viral infection, toxic agents or drugs but may be an autoimmune response. It is characterised by jaundice, abdominal pain, liver enlargement and sometimes fever. The different types of viral hepatitis include hepatitis A (formerly called infectious hepatitis), hep B (serum hepatitis), hep C (formerly called non-A, non-B hepatitis), and hepatitis D, E, F and G. See also: ALT, bilirubin, HBV, HCV, liver
HIV group
One of three groups into which different strains of HIV-1 have been classified: group M ("major"), group O ("outlier") and group N ("new"). The vast majority of HIV strains belong to group M.See also: HIV-1, strain, subtype
HIV-1
One of two distinct HIV species, HIV-1 is the predominant type in Australia and around the world.See also: HIV group, HIV-2, strain, subtype
HIV-2
A distinct and separate species of HIV, HIV-2 is rare outside West Africa and appears to be more difficult to transmit than HIV-1.See also: HIV-1
hypertension
Persistently high blood pressure, an outwardly symptomless condition which carries an increased risk of serious illnesses such as stroke, heart disease and heart attack.
hypothesis
A supposition or assumption advanced as a basis for reasoning or argument, or as a guide to experimental investigation.
ICAAP
International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific.
Igat Hope
Organisation representing people living with HIV/AIDS in Papua New Guinea. ('Igat Hope' means 'There is hope' in Tok Pisin, the national language of PNG).See also: APN+, NHASP
IGCAHRD
Inter-Governmental Committee on AIDS, Hepatitis C and Related Diseases. A key advisory body to the National Public Health Partnership through the Communicable Diseases Network Australia (CDNA) on policy, program, social issues and activities related to HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, sexually transmissible infections and related diseases." Formerly known as the Intergovernmental Committee on AIDS (IGCA) and the Intergovernmental committee on AIDS and Related Diseases (IGCARD).
in vitro
(Latin: within the glass) refers to the technique of performing a given experiment in a controlled environment outside of a living organism; for example in a test tube.
inclusion criteria
The medical or social standards determining whether a person may be allowed to enter a clinical trial. These criteria are based on such factors as age, gender, the type and stage of a disease, previous treatment history, and other medical conditions. It is important to note that inclusion and exclusion criteria are not used to reject people personally, but rather to identify appropriate participants and keep them safe.See also: exclusion criteria
influenza
A highly contagious and relatively common viral infection of the respiratory system, transmitted by infected droplets of moisture which may be spread through coughing and sneezing. Most people with flu recover but some go on to develop secondary infections such as pneumonia which may be fatal.
informed consent
The process of learning the key facts about a clinical trial before deciding whether or not to participate. It is also a continuing process throughout the study to provide information for participants. To help someone decide whether or not to participate, the doctors and nurses involved in the trial explain the details of the study.See also: informed consent document
informed consent document
A document that describes the rights of the study participants, and includes details about the study, such as its purpose, duration, required procedures, and key contacts. Risks and potential benefits are explained in the informed consent document. The participant then decides whether or not to sign the document. Informed consent is not a contract, and the participant may withdraw from the trial at any time.See also: informed consent
insulin resistance
A diabetes-like condition in which, while adequate amounts of insulin are produced by the pancreas, the body does not respond normally to the action of insulin. In the wider community, insulin is related to obesity, while in HIV it may be related to lipodystrophy.See also: diabetes, lipodystrophy
intent-to-treat
Analysis of clinical trial results that includes all data from participants in the groups to which they were randomised even if they never received the treatment.See also: clinical trial
IPN+
Indigenous Positive Network. Now known as PATSIN (Positive Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Network).
ISA
Indigenous Strategic Alliance.
ITPC
International Treatment Preparedness Coalition. ITPC is a worldwide coalition of people living with HIV/AIDS and their advocates, advocating for universal and free access to treatment for AIDS for all HIV+ people and greater input from HIV+ people in decisions that affect their lives.
lipid
A fat.See also: cholesterol
lipodystrophy
A metabolic disorder in which fat in the face, arms, legs and buttocks is lost and/or fatty deposits appear in the abdomen, breasts and neck.See also: insulin resistance
liver
A large organ, located in the upper right abdomen, which assists in digestion by metabolising carbohydrates, fats and proteins, stores vitamins and minerals, produces amino acids, bile and cholesterol, and removes toxins from the blood.See also: ALT, bilirubin, hepatitis
MACASHH
Ministerial Advisory Committee on AIDS, Sexual Health and Hepatides. The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing’s high level expert committee, providing advice on issues relevant to HIV/AIDS, sexually transmissible infections and hepatitis C. For further information, see the MACASHH page of the DoHA website.
myocardial infarct
A life-threatening emergency in which the blood supply to the heart is suddenly cut off, causing the heart muscle (myocardium) to die from lack of oxygen.
natural history study
Study of the natural development of something (such as an organism or a disease) over a period of time, with or without the intervention of treatment.
NCHECR
National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research. Based at the University of NSW in Sydney, NCHECR is one of Australia's leading medical research centres and is recognised internationally as a leader in the field of research into HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis. For further information, see the NCHECR website.
NCHSR
National Centre in HIV Social Research. Located at the University of NSW in Sydney, NCHSR conducts research which describes and analyses the social understandings, meanings and practices of peoples, institutions and communities in relation to HIV, Hepatitis C and other communicable diseases. For further information, see the NCHSR website.
NGO
Non-Government Organisation.
NHASP
National HIV/AIDS Support Project [Papua New Guinea]See also: Igat Hope
nucleoside analogue
A type of anti-HIV drug that works by inhibiting a stage of the HIV life cycle called reverse transcription. Non-nucleosides work in a similar way, but are chemically different.See also: drug class, HAART, reverse transcriptase inhibitor
off-label
Use of an approved medicine in a disease or condition for which it is not approved.
open label
A clinical trial in which doctors and participants know which drug or vaccine is being administered.See also: clinical trial
PATSIN
Positive Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Network. A NAPWA-auspiced national membership-based network of Indigenous people living with HIV/AIDS.
PBS
[Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme] The federal government program which subsidises medication costs in Australia. Anti-HIV drugs are part of a special part of the PBS called Section 100 (S100) which is used for expensive, highly specialised drugs.
peer review
Review of clinical research results by experts chosen by the study sponsor. These experts review the trials for scientific merit, participant safety, and ethical considerations.
periodontal disease
Disease of the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, the periodontal membrane and the underlying bone. Periodontal disease, which includes gingivitis and the more serious periodontitis, is the most common cause of loss of teeth in adults. People with HIV/AIDS are at increased risk of developing periodontal disease, even with good oral hygiene.See also: gingivitis
pH
[Potential of Hydrogen] A measure of acidity or alkalinity. pH levels are expressed on a scale from 0 (most acid) to 14 (most alkaline). A pH level of 7 is neutral.
pharmacokinetic
Referring to the processes (in a living organism) of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of a drug or vaccine. In clinical trials, measurements are made of the rate at which a drug is absorbed into the bloodstream and then excreted via the kidneys or liver, to determine the optimum dose of the drug.
Phase I
A clinical trial designed to establish whether an experimental drug is safe for humans to take. Phase I studies determine the metabolism and pharmacologic actions of drugs in humans, the side effects associated with increasing doses, and look for early evidence of effectiveness; these studies may include either people with HIV, HIV-negative volunteers, or bothSee also: clinical trial, Phase II, Phase III
Phase II
A smaller clinical trial designed to establish whether a drug is effective. Phase II studies are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the drug for a particular indication or indications in patients with the disease or condition under study and to determine the common short-term side effects and risks. If there is evidence that the drug is effective, a Phase III study is undertaken, with a larger number of participaants, to confirm this.See also: clinical trial, Phase I, Phase III
Phase III
A large clinical trial designed to establish whether a drug is effective and safe enough for widespread use. Phase III studies include expanded controlled and uncontrolled trials after preliminary evidence suggesting effectiveness of the drug has been obtained, and are intended to gather additional information to evaluate the overall benefit-risk relationship of the drug and provide and adequate basis for physician labeling. See also: clinical trial, Phase I, Phase II
Phase IV
Post-marketing studies to delineate additional information including the drug's risks, benefits, and optimal use.
placebo
A dummy medical treatment, designed to have no pharmacological effect, administered to the control group of a clinical trial.See also: control group, placebo controlled, placebo effect
placebo controlled
A method of investigation of drugs in which an inactive substance (the placebo) is given to one group of participants, while the drug being tested is given to another group. The results obtained in the two groups are then compared to see if the investigational treatment is more effective in treating the condition.See also: placebo
placebo effect
A physical or emotional change, occurring after a substance is taken or administered, that is not the result of any special property of the substance. The change may be beneficial, reflecting the expectations of the participant and, often, the expectations of the person giving the substance.See also: placebo
plaque
A sticky substance that forms on the surface of the teeth, helping bacteria growth and acid formation beneath its surface, and causing tooth decay. Plaque build-up can irritate the gums and cause gum disease. Removal of plaque through regular brushing and flossing is the key to good oral hygiene.See also: gingivitis
PLWHA
Person (or People) Living with HIV/AIDS.
pneumonia
An inflammation of the lung, usually caused by infection with bacteria or other microorganisms, in which the air sacs of the lung become filled with inflammatory cells which solidify and inhibit breathing.
PNG
Papua New Guinea
preclinical
Referring to the testing of experimental drugs in the test tube or in animals – the testing that occurs before trials in humans may be carried out.
prevention trial
A research trial to find better ways to prevent disease in people who have never had the disease or to prevent a disease from returning. These approaches may include medicines, vaccines, vitamins, minerals, or lifestyle changes.
protease inhibitor
A type of anti-HIV drug that works by preventing the production of an enzyme, protease, that HIV needs to replicate.See also: drug class, HAART
protocol
A study plan on which all clinical trials are based. The plan is carefully designed to safeguard the health of the participants as well as answer specific research questions. A protocol describes what types of people may participate in the trial; the schedule of tests, procedures, medications, and dosages; and the length of the study. While in a clinical trial, participants following a protocol are seen regularly by the research staff to monitor their health and to determine the safety and effectiveness of their treatment See also: clinical trial
quality of life trial
Refers to trials that explore ways to improve comfort and quality of life for individuals with a chronic illness.
randomised
A method based on chance by which study participants are assigned to a treatment group. Randomization minimizes the differences among groups by equally distributing people with particular characteristics among all the trial arms. The researchers do not know which treatment is better. From what is known at the time, any one of the treatments chosen could be of benefit to the participant See also: arm, clinical trial, randomised trial
randomised trial
A clinical trial in which participants are randomly (i.e., by chance) assigned to one of two or more treatment arms of a clinical trial.See also: clinical trial, randomised
resistance
HIV which has mutated and is less susceptible to the effects of one or more anti-HIV drugs is said to be resistant.
reverse transcriptase inhibitor
A type of anti-HIV drug which works by interfering with an enzyme, reverse transcriptase, that HIV needs to reproduce.See also: drug class, nucleoside analogue
ribavirin
An antiviral drug which is effective against a range of viruses including herpes, the hepatitis C virus and several strains of influenza.
salvage
[salvage therapy] A treatment strategy for managing HIV in people who have developed resistance to existing therapies.
SARS
[Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome] A new respiratory illness which was first reported in Asian countries during late 2002 and early 2003. The symptoms include high fever, cough, malaise and difficulty in breathing. Several laboratory tests for the SARS virus are now available.
set point
The measurable holding point or balance between the virus and the body's immune system reported as the viral load measurement. The viral set point is established within a few weeks to months after infection and is thought to remain steady for an indefinite period of time. Set points are thought to determine how long it will take for disease progression to occur. [NIH]
side effect
Any undesired actions or effects of a drug or treatment. Negative or adverse effects may include headache, nausea, hair loss, skin irritation, or other physical problems. Experimental drugs must be evaluated for both immediate and long-term side effects.See also: adverse event
Special Access Scheme
Before a drug has been approved, manufacturers often provide the drug free of charge to people who cannot participate in a clinical trial and who meet certain criteria under a Special Access Scheme (SAS). Also known as expanded access.
steroid
A substance which is structurally similar to human sex hormones which is used for therapeutic purposes due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
STI
[Sexually Transmissible (or Transmitted) Infection] Infections spread by the transfer of organisms from person to person during sexual contact. Also called venereal disease (VD) (an older public health term) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
strain
[HIV strain] Any subgroup of the HIV species. Because HIV mutates very easily, there are many different strains (and may be multiple strains within a single person).See also: HIV group, HIV-1, subtype
subtype
[HIV subtype or clade] A genetically distinct subtype of HIV within a defined HIV group. Group M has nine known subtypes -- A, B, C, D, F, G, H, J and K.See also: HIV group, HIV-1, strain
TGA
[Therapeutic Goods Administration] The federal government body that approves drugs and treatments before they can be prescribed.See also: Food and Drug Administration
triglyceride
A type of fat in the blood. Elevated triglyceride levels may be a side effect of some anti-HIV drugs.See also: carbohydrate
UNAIDS
Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS. UNAIDS is the main advocate for accelerated, comprehensive and coordinated global action on the epidemic. For further information, see the UNAIDS website.
viral load
A measurement of the quantity of HIV RNA in the blood. Viral load blood test results are expressed as the number of copies (of HIV) per milliliter of blood plasma.
virus
A small infective organism which is incapable of reproducing outside a host cell.See also: bacterium, coronavirus