AEMCA Practice Exam

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What does HIV target in the body?

The respiratory system
The immune system
The nervous system
The circulatory system

The correct answer is: The immune system

HIV primarily targets the immune system, specifically the CD4 T cells, which are crucial for the body’s immune response. By infecting and destroying these cells, HIV compromises the body's ability to fight infections and diseases. This weakening leads to a gradual decline in immune function, ultimately resulting in AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) if untreated. The other systems listed, such as the respiratory, nervous, and circulatory systems, are not the primary focus of HIV infection, although the impact of a weakened immune system can affect overall health and lead to complications in these systems. However, the direct targeting of cells by HIV occurs within the immune system, making it the correct answer in this context. Understanding this mechanism is critical for recognizing the disease's implications and informs treatment strategies to manage and control HIV infection.