Page 145 - 78 glossary of hivaids-related terms_opt

Wasting Syndrome
The involuntary loss of more than 10% of body weight in addition
to more than 30 days of either diarrhea or weakness and fever.
Wasting refers to the loss of muscle mass, although part of the
weight loss may also be due to loss of fat. HIV-associated wasting
syndrome is considered an AIDS-defining condition.

Western Blot
A laboratory technique used to detect a specific protein. A Western
blot test to detect HIV proteins in the blood is used to confirm a
positive HIV antibody test (ELISA).
See Also: Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

White Blood Cell
Also known as a leukocyte. These cells make up the immune
system and include lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils,
eosinophils, macrophages, and mast cells. White blood cells
are made by bone marrow and help the body fight infection and
other diseases.

WHO
See: World Health Organization

WIHS
See: Women’s Interagency HIV Study

Wild-Type Virus
A term to describe viral strains (including strains of HIV) that
have not acquired any genetic mutations that create special
characteristics, such as resistance to particular drugs.

Window Period
The time period between a person’s infection with HIV and the W
appearance of detectable anti-HIV antibodies. Because antibodies
to HIV take some time to form, an HIV antibody test will not be
positive immediately after a person is infected. The time delay
typically ranges from 14 to 21 days, but varies for different people.

HIV/AIDS Glossary 143