Glossary

fibrotest – a test which uses results from blood tests to predict liver damage and which may become an alternative option to liver biopsy in some patients.

HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus

A fungal (yeast) infection that affects the mouth and throat, gullet, sinuses, genital organs and – rarely – the brain. Also called ‘candida’.

bradycardia is when the heart beats too slowly.

tachycardia refers to when the heart beats too fast.

See: arrhythmia

lumbar puncture – taking a sample of spinal fluid by inserting a needle into the body at the base of the spine. Also called a spinal tap.