Effect of Highly Active Antiretroviral Drugs Therapy (HAART) on Serum Hepatic and Renal Function Indices on HIV Patients in Kano Metropolitan

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a major public health challenge, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing the highest burden. Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) has improved survival rates but is linked to liver and kidney toxicity, leading to treatment modifications. This study assessed the impact of HAART on liver and kidney function indices among HIV patients in Kano Metropolitan, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 200 participants (100 HIV-positive on HAART, 100 HIV-negative controls). Liver and kidney function markers were analyzed by gender and HAART duration. Data were analyzed at p<0.05 significance differences. The results show that the liver indices (ALT, AST, and bilirubin) and kidney parameters (creatinine, urea, Na⁺, K⁺, Cl-) were significantly higher in HAART patients compared to controls, indicating potential hepatic and renal dysfunction. Prolonged HAART use (>7 years) resulted in significantly elevated ALT, AST, and kidney parameters and decreased protein levels. Gender analysis revealed that males exhibited higher values for most parameters compared to females, except for Cl-, which was higher in females. Prolonged HAART use is associated with significant alterations in liver and kidney function indices, particularly after seven years of treatment. The findings underscore the need for regular monitoring of hepatic and renal functions in HIV patients on long-term HAART to mitigate potential complications. These results provide critical insights for clinicians and policymakers in optimizing HIV treatment strategies in resource-limited settings.