Comparative Analysis of Indices of the Liver Function Tests in Patients with and without Non- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease at a Teaching Hospital in Hapur

ABSTRACT

Background: Non-Alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a worldwide health concern with increase in the global incidence of obesity and it is now considered the hepatic component of the metabolic syndrome. Aims and Objective: The study’s aim was to compare the indices of the Liver Function tests in compensated chronic liver disease patients with and without NAFLD. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 consecutive patients with compensated chronic liver disease were recruited into the study. A structured questionnaire was administered to obtain relevant socio-demographic data. NAFLD was diagnosed based on clinical, biochemical, ultrasonographic and in a few histological features. The Adult Treatment Panel III criteria were used to identify patients with the metabolic syndrome. Results: In our study, 100 participants were recruited into study. 40 out of 60 patients (67%) showed grade-1 fatty liver findings and 20 out of 60 patients (33%) showed grade-2 fatty liver. Approximately 19% had fatty liver finding. The mean (SD) age of persons with NAFLD was 45.12 (±8.07) years compared  to 47.49(±11.79) years for persons without NAFLD. The difference was not statistically significant (p=0.2). Body mass index (BMI), central obesity (waist circumference), fasting  blood sugar, blood pressure, total cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly higher in  the NAFLD group (p= <0.05) respectively.  Conclusion: Indices of the deranged Liver functions were more prevalent in persons with NAFLD. It is recommended that patients with NAFLD be screened for metabolic syndrome and appropriate therapy instituted to decrease the risk of both hepatic and cardiovascular complications.