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Persistent hyperaminotransferasemia resolving after weight reduction in obese children
P Vajro1, A Fontanella, C Perna
1Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Italy.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|August 1, 1994
Summary
A hypocaloric diet improved liver abnormalities in obese children with unexplained high liver enzymes. Weight loss led to prompt and persistent recovery, highlighting diet
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hepatology
- Obesity Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Obesity is a growing concern in children.
- Hyperaminotransferasemia, elevated liver enzymes, can be asymptomatic in obese children.
- The origin of persistent hyperaminotransferasemia in obese children is often unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause and treatment of asymptomatic hyperaminotransferasemia in obese children.
- To evaluate the effect of a hypocaloric diet on liver abnormalities in this population.
Main Methods:
- Nine obese children with unexplained hyperaminotransferasemia were studied.
- Liver ultrasonography was performed.
- A hypocaloric diet was prescribed as an intervention.
Main Results:
- Most patients presented with a "bright" liver on ultrasonography.
- A hypocaloric diet resulted in prompt and sustained improvement of hepatic abnormalities.
- Improvement in liver function directly correlated with excess weight loss.
Conclusions:
- Dietary intervention, specifically a hypocaloric diet, is effective in managing hyperaminotransferasemia in obese children.
- Weight loss is a key factor in resolving diet-induced liver abnormalities.
- This study underscores the link between childhood obesity and liver health.