Does the HIV infection kill immune system?

Yes, the HIV infection kills immune system.

HIV primarily infects a type of white blood cell called a CD4+ T cell, also known as a helper T cell. These cells play a critical role in the body's immune system, which is responsible for fighting off infections and diseases.

When HIV enters a CD4+ T cell, it uses the cell's machinery to make copies of itself. These copies are then released from the cell and can infect other CD4+ T cells, leading to a progressive decline in the number of these vital immune cells.

As the number of CD4+ T cells decreases, the body's ability to fight off infections becomes weaker. This can lead to a variety of illnesses and conditions, including:

- Opportunistic infections: These are infections that take advantage of a weakened immune system and can cause serious illness or even death. Examples include Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Kaposi's sarcoma.

- Cancers: HIV infection also increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including Kaposi's sarcoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and cervical cancer.

- Neurological complications: HIV can affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to a variety of neurological problems, including dementia, memory loss, and balance problems.

Ultimately, the damage caused by HIV to the immune system can lead to a condition called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. AIDS is characterized by a severely weakened immune system and a high risk of developing serious illnesses and infections.