We studied the correlation between the LFP and age, gender, route of HIV transmission, CDC stage of HIV infection, history of alcohol abuse, ALT > 150 IU/L at baseline (> grade 2, according to ACTG scale of liver toxicity), CD4+ cell count < 200/mm(3) at nadir and < 350/mm(3) at first biopsy, detectable HIV RNA during more than 50% of the time period considered (available in the patients treated with HAART between two biopsies), histological necroinflammatory index (grading), and antiretroviral therapy. The gene discussed is CD4; the disease is alcohol abuse.