Increased Prevalence of Hepatic Steatosis in Young Adults with Lifelong HIV

Abstract

Little is known about the effects of lifelong human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or antiretroviral therapy on hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Using transient elastography, we evaluated 46 young adults with lifelong HIV and 20 matched HIV-negative controls. Steatosis was present in 33% of persons with HIV and only 10% of controls (P =. 04). Hepatic fibrosis scores were not elevated and did not differ between groups. Metabolic parameters, particularly increased waist circumference, and not HIV-specific factors, were significantly associated with steatosis. While this finding should be examined in larger cohorts, modifiable metabolic disturbances may be important targets to optimize liver health in this population.