# Describe the effects of HIV on the immune system and explain why a person infected with HIV becomes increasingly vulnerable to other infections over time.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 16.5 Sexually transmitted infections · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. HIV destroys lymphocytes
2. This impairs the ability to produce antibodies
3. The immune system is weakened / no longer functional, leading to AIDS
4. The body cannot fight off pathogens / other infections that a healthy immune system would normally destroy

## Key terms

- [HIV](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/hiv)
- [immune system](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/immune-system)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-effects-of-hiv-on-79ca3a82) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.