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Glossary

Selected words and phrases

icterus – medical term for jaundice (yellowing skin)

secondary mutation – see minor mutation.

mortality – medical word for death or dying.

foetoplacental circulation is the blood supply in the foetus and placenta.

ALT, alanine aminotransferase, also called serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase; SGPT)  – a key liver enzyme produced in liver cells. ALT is routinely monitored in HIVpositive people on ARVs to monitor liver toxicity from HIV drugs (or other medications). Increased ALT signals liver injury, but does not indicate how serious liver damage is.

Information on liver tests.