Assessment of hepatic enzyme activity in relation to body mass indices in adults

Background: Altered body mass index can disturb the metabolism of body which can be a risk factor for metabolic syndrome, may lead to chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Obesity may be associated with progression of hepatic dysfunction through several mechanisms. High levels of cytokines including interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) may disrupt the production of hepcidin leading to some types of liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and liver cancer. 
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between varying body mass indices BMI and hepatic enzyme activity in both adult males and females. 
Materials and Methods: A total of 220 study participants of both genders males and females were analysed for the activities of enzymes AST, ALT, ALP, GGT and LDH and were correlated with their respective body mass indices, which were categorized as per WHO guidelines. 
Results: Significantly raised levels of ALT, AST, and ALP in both males and females had shown a positive correlation with BMI and were commonly observed in overweight and individuals, indicating potential liver dysfunction and metabolic disturbances. GGT and LDH activities were found positively correlated in obese males having BMI greater than 30 kg/m2 as compared to females in age group of 40-60 years.
Conclusion: Excessive weight is independently associated with increased levels of liver enzymes in both the genders. Body Mass Index appeared as good predictor of elevated hepatic enzymes. It can be helpful in clinical settings to identify patients at risk of liver dysfunction, which is closely related to metabolic syndrome.