The correlation of serum transaminase values with fibrosis staging and necroinflammatory activity scores in chronic hepatitis

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare the necroinflammatory activity score/histological activity index (HAI) and fibrosis score detected in liver biopsies with serum transaminase levels of chronic hepatitis B, C and steatohepatitis. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included total of 398 cases whose liver biopsies were performed because increased liver enzyme levels and had the diagnoses of chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C or steatohepatitis ofter liver biopsy between 2003-2007. The HAI and fibrosis scores of all cases were evaluated according to ISHAK classification criteria and then the results were compared with the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels at the time of biopsy. Results: When all cases were considered, serum AST values emerged as the most statistically significant variable for hepatic fibrosis (r:0.311; p<0.01). Additionally, there was a correlation between AST values and HAI (r:0.295; p<0.01). On the other hand, serum ALT values did not correlate with (r:0.094; p>0.05) the extent of hepatic fibrosis but correlated weakly with HAI (r:0.242; p<0.01). Conclusion: Serum AST level is found to be a significant indicator of histological activity index and fibrosis as well as hepatic damage. These findings suggested that, among other factors, serum AST values should be considered in decisions regarding the need for liver biopsy and treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis. © 2011 by Türkiye Klinikleri.