The final stage of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus is called what?

• A. Aids
• B. Cancer
• C. Melanoma
• D. Hepatitis

Answer: (A)

AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. HIV progressively weakens the immune system by attacking CD4 T cells. When the immune system becomes severely compromised—typically indicated by a CD4 count below 200 cells/mm³ or the appearance of specific opportunistic infections or cancers—the condition is classified as AIDS. This stage reflects a marked inability to fight off infections and illnesses that a healthy immune system would normally handle. Modern antiretroviral therapy can prevent progression to AIDS or keep it in check, helping maintain immune function. The other options—cancer, melanoma, and hepatitis—are diseases that can occur in people with HIV, especially as complications, but they are not stages of HIV infection itself.