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Liver function tests in adults with Plasmodium falciparum infection
M P Davies1, G M Brook, W R Weir
1Coppett's Wood Hospital, Royal Free Hospital, Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London, UK.
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Most adults with Plasmodium falciparum malaria show elevated liver enzymes, particularly serum bilirubin and aspartate transaminase. The duration or severity of malaria did not correlate with these liver function test results.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
Background:
- Plasmodium falciparum malaria is a significant global health concern.
- Liver involvement is a known complication of malaria, affecting liver function.
- Understanding alterations in liver function tests (LFTs) is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of liver enzyme abnormalities in adults diagnosed with Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
- To compare the elevation levels of serum bilirubin, aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in malaria patients.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted involving 106 adult patients with Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
- Liver function tests, including serum bilirubin, AST, and ALP, were analyzed.
- Results were compared against local reference ranges.
Main Results:
- Elevated levels of at least one liver function index were observed in 63 (59.4%) of the patients.
- Serum bilirubin and AST elevations were more common and pronounced than ALP elevations.
- No significant correlation was found between the duration of illness or the severity of malaria and the measured liver function indices.
Conclusions:
- Abnormalities in liver function tests are common in adults with Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
- Serum bilirubin and AST are the most frequently affected liver enzymes.
- The extent of liver enzyme derangement is not directly linked to disease duration or severity in this patient cohort.