Liver function tests in PEM

ABSTRACT

Liver function tests were performed for 70 infants and children suffering from PEM in Zagazig University Hospital. Liver span was increased in 70% of collected cases especially KWO and marasmic KWO. The biochemical changes in liver function revealed that total protein is less than that control in 26.6% of marasmic cases, while albumin level is lesser than normal in 90% of marasmic KWO. SGOT was elevated in 50% of marasmus and 95% of KWO. Alkaline phosphatase was higher than that of control in 90% marasmus and 60% in KWO. This study has revealed that some of changes in liver function tests may occur in severe PEM. Therefore, liver biopsy is recommended to confirm these findings: