[Acquired immunologic deficiency syndrome (AIDS). I. Biologic principles].

Area of Science:

• Virology: Identification of a retrovirus as the etiological agent of AIDS.
• Immunology: Characterization of disturbances in cellular and humoral immune functions.
• Epidemiology: Tracking the epidemic spread and risk factors like homosexuality and intravenous drug abuse.

Context:

• AIDS emerged as a significant global health crisis within a decade.
• The syndrome presents with opportunistic infections, neoplasias, and sometimes neuropsychiatric disturbances.
• High mortality rate (nearly 100%) with a few years' progression.

Purpose:

• To summarize the early understanding of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
• To highlight the etiological agent, transmission routes, and clinical manifestations.
• To emphasize the need for transmission prevention in the absence of effective therapies or vaccines.

Summary:

• AIDS is a transmissible immunodeficiency syndrome caused by a retrovirus, identified as a slow virus.
• Transmission routes include behavioral patterns (homosexuality, drug abuse) and the haematogenous route (hemophiliacs, blood transfusions).
• Early diagnostic virological tests were developed, but effective chemotherapy and vaccines remain elusive, underscoring prevention's importance.

Impact:

• Established the viral etiology of AIDS, paving the way for diagnostic test development.
• Identified key risk factors and transmission routes, informing public health interventions.
• Highlighted the urgent need for preventative strategies due to the disease's severity and lack of cure.