Journal of AIDS & Clinical Research

HIV Co-Infection with Hepatotropic Viruses and Mycobacterial Tuberculosis

Abstract

Okeke TC and Anyaehie BU

HIV Co-infection complicates the natural history, clinical course, therapy and management for HIV. The individuals affected represent a treatment challenge fraught with controversies associated with drug resistance, cross-resistance, hepatotoxicity and suboptimal response. This is a descriptive review of co-infection in HIV positive individuals. Studies have shown that HIV co-infection accelerates the natural course of hepatotropic viruses and increased risk of liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and decompensated liver disease in co-infected individuals. Studies have equally shown increased risk of progression to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome AIDS and AIDS-related death among HIV/HCV co-infected persons and HCV may affect the management of HIV infection, increasing the incidence of liver toxicity associated with antiretroviral regimens. Dual HBV/ HCV co-infection tend to have more severe liver cirrhosis and hepatitis decompensation, and a higher incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma. HIV is a strong risk factor for TB. High prevalence rates are significantly correlated with high TB incidence rates. Tuberculosis equally accelerates the progression of disease in HIV.

Co-infection with HIV is a growing public health problem worldwide. There is need for enlightenment and further researches to highlight the importance of public health follow-up and reduction measures for HIV co-infected individuals in order to prevent subsequent infections.