Whether HIV patients had hepatitis or not didn't change the link between losing visceral fat and improving liver enzyme levels.
Scientific Claim
The association between visceral adipose tissue (VAT) reduction and improvements in liver enzymes among HIV-infected patients with elevated transaminases was not significantly affected by viral hepatitis status.
Original Statement
“The longitudinal association between VAT and liver enzymes was not modified by viral hepatitis status. Thus, the decline in hepatic transaminases that accompanied a tesamorelin-mediated VAT reduction was comparable among individuals with and without viral hepatitis.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The claim uses 'was not significantly affected' which correctly reflects the lack of interaction found in the data without implying causation.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Visceral fat reduction with tesamorelin is associated with improved liver enzymes in HIV