Faecal tumour necrosis factor-α in individuals with HIV-related diarrhoea

Abstract

TNF-alpha production may have a role in the pathogenesis of bacterial, microsporidial and CMV-related diarrhoea in HIV-seropositive individuals. Thus, anti-TNF-alpha agents may have a therapeutic role in the management of these conditions. FTNF-alpha greater than 15 U/ml in apparently pathogen-negative diarrhoea may suggest endoscopic gastrointestinal biopsy to diagnose CMV enteritis.