Abnormal liver function associated with occupational exposure to dimethylformamide and hepatitis B virus

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Hepatology
• Toxicology

Background:

• N,N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) is a widely used solvent with known hepatotoxicity.
• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a primary cause of chronic liver disease in Taiwan.
• Understanding the combined effects of chemical exposure and infections on liver health is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the dose-response relationship between DMF exposure and abnormal liver function tests (LFTs).
• To examine the interactions between DMF, other chemical exposures, HBV infection, and confounders on liver abnormalities.
• To assess the association of DMF exposure, HBV, and BMI with chronic liver diseases and fatty liver.

Main Methods:

• Assessed DMF exposure levels (low, middle, high) in 176 Taiwanese workers.
• Analyzed liver function tests (LFTs), HBV carrier status, body mass index (BMI), and other potential confounders.
• Utilized logistic regression and ultrasonography to determine odds ratios (ORs) and associations.

Main Results:

• A significant dose-response relationship was found between DMF exposure levels and abnormal LFTs (P = 0.006).
• HBV carrier status (OR: 3.11) and increased BMI (OR: 2.2) were significantly associated with abnormal LFTs.
• High cumulative DMF exposure (>100 ppm-years), HBV carrier status, and increased BMI were linked to chronic liver diseases.

Conclusions:

• A clear dose-response link exists between DMF exposure and liver function abnormalities in Taiwanese workers.
• HBV carrier status and increased BMI act synergistically with DMF exposure to exacerbate liver abnormalities.
• These findings highlight the importance of managing occupational chemical exposures alongside managing viral infections and metabolic factors.