Evaluation of Liver Function Tests and Clinical Outcomes in Dengue Patients: Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase Levels as a Predictor of Mortality
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51985/Keywords:
Alkaline Phosphatase, Dengue, Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, Hepatic Insufficiency, Liver Function TestsAbstract
Objectives: To evaluate liver function test abnormalities in patients with dengue infection and determine whether elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels are associated with mortality and adverse clinical outcomes.
Study Design and Setting: A prospective, descriptive observational study conducted over four months, from April 2 to July 31, 2022, at PNS Shifa Hospital (BUHSC).
Methodology: Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of confirmed dengue patients were recorded using a structured proforma. Liver function parameters including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and serum bilirubin were analyzed. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 29.
Results: The study included 135 patients with a mean age of 30.9 ± 12.1 years: the majority (60.7%) were under 30. Liver involvement was common, with 64 patients (48.8%) exhibiting liver function test abnormalities. Among these, 27 (42.2%) had elevated ALT, seven (10.9%) showed increased bilirubin, and 30 (46.9%) had elevated ALP. Most patients (83%) maintained normal bilirubin levels, with a mean bilirubin level of 11.7 ± 8.6 µmol/L. Mean ALT was 107 ± 240 IU/L, and mean ALP was 113.6 ± 59.9 IU/L, both above normal ranges. Among liver function parameters, elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels showed a statistically significant association with mortality (Pearson’s r = 0.282, p = 0.01), whereas ALT and bilirubin levels were not significantly associated with death.
Conclusions: Hepatic dysfunction is a frequent finding in dengue patients, with elevated ALP positively correlating with mortality. Although ALT and bilirubin abnormalities are often observed, they do not significantly predict patient outcomes.
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