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IB Biology SL C3.2.12 Hiv Infection and Aids Questions

Explore how HIV enters helper T-cells, reduces lymphocytes and antibodies, and allows opportunistic infections as AIDS develops in IB Biology SL C3.2.12.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • Explain that HIV infects helper T-cells through CD4 receptors and uses reverse transcriptase to copy viral RNA into DNA, enabling infection of the host cell.
  • Trace AIDS progression: loss of helper T-cells reduces B-cell activation and antibody production, weakening immune coordination and allowing opportunistic infections.
  • Interpret HIV data by linking rising viral RNA or falling lymphocyte numbers to reduced antibody protection and late-stage disease symptoms.

IB Biology SL C3.2.12 Hiv Infection and Aids Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

The graph shows changes in the relative amount of one blood component and the number of HIV RNA copies in blood plasma of an infected person over time.

Key: - Blood component

HIV RNA copies

HIV RNA copies

Figure for Question IB Biology SL C3.2.12 Hiv Infection and Aids Questions question 1 — IB Biology SL

Which statement explains a likely symptom nine years after the initial infection?

A

The patient feels tired, as there would be fewer red blood cells to transport oxygen.

B

The patient has difficulty recovering from infectious diseases due to a lack of antibodies.

C

The risk of bleeding and blood infections increases due to a lack of clotting factors.

D

Opportunistic infections spread, as there are few phagocytes to destroy bacteria.

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