Fatty liver disease is associated with underlying cardiovascular disease in HIV-infected persons

Background Cardiovascular disease is an increasing concern among HIV-infected persons and their providers. We determined if fatty liver disease is a marker for underlying coronary atherosclerosis among HIV-infected persons. Methods We performed a cross-sectional study in HIV-infected adults to evaluate the prevalence of and factors, including fatty liver disease, associated with subclinical coronary atherosclerosis. All participants underwent computed tomography for determination of coronary artery calcium (CAC; positive defined as a score >0) and fatty liver disease (defined as a liver-to-spleen ratio < 1.0). Factors associated with CAC were determined using multivariate logistic regression models. Results We included in the study 223 HIV-infected adults with a median age of 43 years [interquartile range (IQR) 36-50 years]; 96% were male and 49% were Caucasian. The median CD4 count was 586 cells/mu L and 83% were receiving antiretroviral medications. Seventy-five (34%) had a positive CAC score and 29 (13%) subjects had fatty liver disease. Among those with CAC scores of 0, 1-100 and >100, the percentage with concurrent fatty liver disease was 8, 18 and 41%, respectively (P=0.001). In the multivariate model, CAC was associated with increasing age [ odds ratio (OR) 4.3 per 10 years; P<0.01], hypertension (OR 2.6; P<0.01) and fatty liver disease (OR 3.8; P<0.01). Conclusions Coronary atherosclerosis as detected using CAC is prevalent among young HIV-infected persons. The detection of fatty liver disease among HIV-infected adults should prompt consideration of assessment for underlying cardiovascular disease and risk factor reduction.