Evaluation of liver function in symptomatic COVID-19 patients

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral respiratory illness with potential hepatic manifestations.
• Studies indicate a significant percentage of COVID-19 cases exhibit abnormal liver enzymes, with severe cases showing higher rates of hepatic dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate alterations in liver function tests (LFTs) among hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
• To determine the association between liver function test abnormalities and disease severity, hospital stay duration, and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 600 eligible COVID-19 patients admitted to AIIMS, Bhopal.
• Patient records were reviewed, and liver function tests (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin) were analyzed. Liver dysfunction was defined as any parameter exceeding the upper limit of normal.

Main Results:

• Of 600 patients, 44.16% presented with liver dysfunction. Severe COVID-19 cases showed a higher prevalence of liver dysfunction compared to mild cases.
• Patients with liver dysfunction had a longer average hospital stay. Mortality rates were higher in patients with liver dysfunction (19.6%) compared to those with normal LFTs (2.1%).

Conclusions:

• Hepatic injury is a common complication in severe COVID-19, potentially due to direct viral effects or cytokine storm.
• Routine evaluation of liver function is recommended for all symptomatic COVID-19 patients.
• Patients with pre-existing liver conditions require heightened monitoring and tailored treatment strategies.