What happens in co-infection with hepatitis B virus and HIV?
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus are transmitted in similar ways, and it is not uncommon for an individual to have both infections. Persons with HIV who acquire hepatitis B are more likely to become chronically infected with hepatitis B than persons who do not have HIV. The reason for this is thought to be that HIV suppresses the immune system and impairs the ability of the body to eliminate the hepatitis B virus. Some nucleoside/nucleotide analogues (a class of antiretroviral drugs) are used to treat both HIV and hepatitis B, although dosages may vary in the two different infections. Stopping one of these agents when the HIV regimen is adjusted may cause hepatitis to flare. What is the role of liver transplantation in hepatitis B infection? Liver transplantation has been successful in patients who have irreversible, life-threatening complications of hepatitis B. This includes patients with liver failure due to end-stage cirrhosis or unusually severe (fulmin
