since cd4+ cells have been reported to be target cells for hiv , these alterations , in concert with a marked cellular atrophy that appears to be restricted to organs of the immune system , suggest that opiates may serve as cofactors in altering the immune status of the host and thus contribute to the increased susceptibility to hiv infection and eventual development of aids in opiate abusers .
C0019693
hiv infection
C0001175
aids