Hepatic function in obese adolescents and the relationship with hepatic steatosis

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of obesity has increased at an impressive rate over the past years, especially among children and adolescents. Many are the alterations that may be found in obese individuals; hepatic steatosis is one of them. The aim of this study was to analyze biochemical and radiographic parameters in overweight and obese adolescents and relate these parameters to anthropometric data so that the hepatic dysfunction could be characterized. Methods: Anthropometric and laboratory data, as well as the nutritional status of the patients, were evaluated. Besides laboratory exams, a liver ultrasound scan was performed to confirm hepatic alterations. Results: A total of 41 patients were recruited and 6 out of that total were excluded due to the fact they were eutrophic. The remaining group was compared with a control group of 12 patients. The overweight/obese group had higher values of AST and ALT in relation to the control group. There were no alterations associated with biochemical parameters regarding anthropometric variables. A significant difference between the BMI of patients with and without steatosis could be observed. Conclusions: There was a predominance of hepatic steatosis in the overweight/obese group, which was associated with the increase in GGT and ALT levels.