Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The liver performs essential functions like filtering toxins and aiding digestion. Certain STDs can significantly impact liver health, sometimes leading to serious damage.
Hepatitis B and Liver Health
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a common STD that directly targets the liver. It is primarily transmitted through exposure to infectious blood or body fluids during sexual contact. HBV can also be passed from mother to child or through shared needles.
Once HBV enters the body, it invades liver cells, triggering an immune response that causes inflammation, known as hepatitis. An acute infection is a short-term illness, but in some individuals, particularly those infected at a young age, the infection can become chronic.
Chronic HBV infection leads to persistent inflammation and progressive liver damage. This damage manifests as fibrosis, where scar tissue forms in the liver. If left unchecked, fibrosis can advance to cirrhosis, a severe scarring that impairs liver function. Cirrhosis increases the risk of serious complications, including liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).
Hepatitis C and Liver Health
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is another STD that primarily attacks the liver, causing inflammation and damage. Similar to HBV, HCV is a bloodborne virus most commonly transmitted through contact with infected blood, such as sharing needles. Sexual transmission is less common but can occur, especially with multiple partners or practices involving blood exposure.
HCV infection often leads to chronic inflammation and damage, as approximately 75-85% of infected individuals develop a chronic infection. The immune system’s attempt to clear the virus contributes to hepatocyte damage and fibrosis. This persistent inflammation leads to the excessive accumulation of scar tissue, a process known as fibrosis.
Continued fibrosis can progress to cirrhosis, a severe and irreversible scarring of the liver. Cirrhosis significantly increases the risk of advanced liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The presence of cirrhosis is a major risk factor for HCC occurrence.
Other STDs with Liver Involvement
Some other STDs can also affect the liver, though typically through different mechanisms or less commonly than viral hepatitis. These infections demonstrate the systemic reach of STDs beyond their primary sites of infection.
Syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, is a systemic infection that can affect multiple organs. While less common than viral hepatitis, advanced stages of syphilis can sometimes lead to liver inflammation, known as syphilitic hepatitis. This manifestation is considered rare but may be underdiagnosed, often presenting with abnormal liver enzymes. It can resolve with appropriate antibiotic therapy.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) does not directly cause liver damage like hepatitis viruses. However, liver issues are common in people living with HIV. This is often due to co-infection with Hepatitis B or C viruses, which are prevalent among individuals with HIV. Additionally, some antiretroviral medications used to treat HIV can lead to liver toxicity or contribute to conditions like fatty liver disease. Opportunistic infections that affect the liver can also occur in individuals with weakened immune systems due to HIV.
Recognizing and Addressing Liver Damage
Recognizing potential signs of liver damage is important for early intervention. While liver disease often progresses silently in its early stages, some general signs and symptoms might indicate a problem. These can include unexplained fatigue, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, and abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side. Unexplained weight loss, nausea, and itchy skin can also be indicators.
Timely diagnosis allows for intervention to slow or prevent further progression. Healthcare providers often use a combination of methods to diagnose liver conditions. Blood tests, such as liver function tests, can measure enzymes and proteins to indicate liver health. Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI can provide detailed views of the liver and detect abnormalities. In some cases, a liver biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken, may be necessary to determine the extent and cause of damage. Knowing one’s STD status and seeking medical attention for any concerning symptoms are important steps in managing liver health.