PI Perspective #29

April 2000     View PDF     En español

Organ Transplant Study Moves Forward

As HIV-positive people live longer, fewer are dying from infections usually associated with AIDS. Instead, a rise in a variety of other complications, including organ failure, are beginning to threaten the lives of people with HIV. For example, liver disease may be a complication of hepatitis C virus, a common infection among people with HIV but it may also be a result of HIV disease itself. Either way, liver disease may be worsened by some therapies commonly used to treat HIV. HIV infection and some HIV therapies may likewise cause or worsen other health problems such as poor kidney function. In advanced stages of liver and kidney disease, organ transplants may be the only hope. A recently funded organ transplantation study offers new hope for people facing these dilemmas.

For information about the UCSF study, contact the receptionist at the UCSF Kidney Transplant Unit at 415-353-1551. Physicians or patients should let the receptionist know they are inquiring about Dr. Stock’s HIV transplant study. Dr. Stock notes that it’s best to call 9am–4pm PST to avoid getting the answering service and increasing the likelihood that the call will be directed appropriately. (Note: you do not have to be a California resident to participate in the UCSF study).