The Liver in HIV/AIDS Infection: The Import of Liver Function Tests

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a recognized foe, a public and private health concern that has, with some help from less publicized foes, achieved
international fame. As it spreads its deadly tentacles through its human prey, the mighty liver is not left out of its death toll among organs. A minute retrovirus stands accused here, convicted for waging war on the immune system of the unwary host. This silent killer
has no ounce of decency, for various organs lay waste in its attempt to claim sovereignty. This paper reviews its effects on the liver and the role of liver function tests in assessing the damage to this valiant organ in an oft-repeated battle that ends the way Napoleon
Bonaparte, the famous 19th century French general “… accepted peace like he had been defeated”.

IFEMED Journal Vol. 14 (1) 2008: pp. 11-13