Issues in diagnostic testing and monitoring in HIV/viral hepatitis co-infection.

Co-infection with HIV and hepatitis B (HBV)/ hepatitis C virus (HCV) occurs commonly due to similar routes of transmission. Both hepatotropic viruses can cause a severe clinical picture in HIV-infected individuals with rapid progression of liver disease, cirrhosis and increased mortality. Fortunately, treatment options of HBV and HCV are becoming well established and may have a clinical impact in slowing disease progression. This, coupled with the fact that highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has increased the life expectancy of HIV-infected patients stresses the importance of management of concurrent illnesses such as HBV and HCV infection, taking into consideration pharmacokinetic interaction with components of HAART regimens.