The effect of a standardized work load on 'liver tests' in patients with chronic active hepatitis

Since opinions differ about the effect of physical activity in chronic liver disease, we performed a submaximal ergometric exercise test in 17 patients with chronic active hepatitis in clinical remission while receiving immunosuppressive therapy and in 5 patients with portacaval shunts. The calculated oxygen consumption was low in most patients. Blood samples were drawn before the exercise and 4 h, 24 h, and 48 h after. No changes occurred in serum ALAT, ASAT, ALP, CK, GT, or prealbumin. The clinical condition was not influenced by the exercise test. We conclude that moderate physical activity, at least of short duration, is well tolerated by patients with chronic active hepatitis.