AIDS stands for which medical syndrome?

• A. Autoimmune Deficiency Syndrome
• B. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
• C. Acquired Infectious Disease Syndrome
• D. Acute Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Answer: (B)

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Acquired means it develops after exposure, not inherited. Immune points to the immune system, which AIDS weakens. Deficiency indicates a lack of adequate immune function. Syndrome means a collection of signs and illnesses that occur together. Put together, it describes the advanced stage of HIV infection where the immune system is severely compromised, making the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

The other phrases aren’t correct for this condition: autoimmune would imply the immune system attacking the body's own tissues, which isn’t what AIDS represents. Acquired Infectious Disease Syndrome would refer to infections themselves, not the immune system’s failure. Acute Immunodeficiency would suggest a sudden onset, whereas AIDS is a chronic, progressive condition stemming from HIV infection.