Page 48 - 78 glossary of hivaids-related terms_opt

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
A highly sensitive laboratory test used to determine the presence of
antibodies to HIV in the blood or saliva. Positive ELISA test results
indicate that a person is HIV infected, but these results should be
confirmed with a highly specific laboratory test called a Western blot.
See Also: Western Blot
E Antibody

Eosinophilia
A condition in which the number of eosinophils (a type of white
blood cell) in the blood is higher than normal. Eosinophilia is often
a response to infection or allergens (substances that cause an
allergic reaction).

Eosinophilic Folliculitis (EF)
A type of folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) characterized by
recurring patches of inflamed, pus-filled sores that occur primarily
on the face and sometimes on the back or upper arms. The sores
usually spread, may itch intensely, and often leave areas of darker-
than-normal skin (hyperpigmentation) when they heal. HIV-associated
EF most commonly occurs in people with low CD4 counts.

Epidemic
A disease that has spread rapidly through a segment of the human
population in a given geographic area.

Epidemiology
The branch of medical science that studies the occurrence,
distribution, and control of a disease in populations.

Epithelium
The protective covering of the internal and external organs of the
body, including the lining of blood vessels, body cavities, glands,
and organs. In addition to its protective properties, the epithelium
also provides a surface to absorb and secrete chemicals needed by
the body.

46 HIV/AIDS Glossary