To investigate the prevalence of liver fibrosis and identify associated risk factors among people with HIV (PWH) and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), defined as liver disease related to metabolic dysfunction.
Key Findings:
69.25% of participants had a BMI < 24 kg/m2.
39.06% were diagnosed with MASLD, with 41.13% classified as lean MASLD.
Significant liver fibrosis was observed in 121 of 361 PWH, including 75 with MASLD.
Independent risk factors for significant fibrosis included higher alanine aminotransferase levels and type 2 diabetes among PWH with MASLD.
Interpretation:
Significant liver fibrosis is prevalent among PWH with MASLD, highlighting the need for early identification and management to improve patient outcomes.
Limitations:
The study is cross-sectional, limiting causal inference.
Data on liver fibrosis in lean individuals with HIV is scarce, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Conclusion:
Early identification of liver fibrosis in PWH is crucial for improving patient outcomes, given the high prevalence and associated risk factors.
