Hepatic Enzyme Alterations among HIV Positive Individuals on Antiretroviral Therapy in Auchi, Nigeria: A Cross- Sectional Analysis

Abstract

HIV infection continues to pose a substantial global health threat, with Sub-Saharan Africa especially Nigeria experiencing disproportionately high disease burden. Although Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) has significantly enhanced outcomes for people living with HIV, questions remain about its prolonged impact on various organ systems, particularly liver function. This research examined changes in Liver enzymes in HIV positive patients receiving ART in Auchi, located in Edo-North, Nigeria. A cross-sectional design was carried out at Edo State University Teaching Hospital (EDSUTH) between October 2024 and January 2025. The study population included HIV positive individuals with ART experience (56), alongside HIV-negative participants serving as controls (56). Data collection involved structured questionnaires and laboratory testing to assess demographic characteristics and laboratory testing of biochemical parameters, including ALT, AST, ALP, albumin, total protein, globulin. Findings demonstrated notable differences in liver biomarkers between HIV-positive participants and controls. ALT concentrations showed modest decreases, while ALP levels exhibited significant reductions, potentially indicating effects on bone metabolism. Increased globulin and total protein concentrations suggesting ongoing immune system activation. Treatment duration and gender were identified as important determinants of enzyme variations. This investigation demonstrates that HIV infection and ART treatment are linked to detectable modifications in liver and cardiac biomarkers, highlighting the importance of regular biochemical surveillance and sex-specific therapeutic approaches. These results add to the expanding understanding of systemic effects associated with ART and provide important guidance for individualized HIV care in resource-constrained environments.