Comparison of Homocysteine Levels in Various Liver Diseases

Abstract

Introduction: Homocysteine (Hcy) is an intermediate product formed in methionine metabolism. Disturbances in liver function are likely to affect the metabolism of both methionine and Hcy which leads to increased serum Hcy levels. Hyperhomocysteinemia might be a risk factor for cirrhotic patients in addition to its known role for cardiovascular diseases. Hcy metabolism is dependent on B complex vitamins, particularly folate and vitamin B12 are associated. Individuals with low folate status along with mutated methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase have an increased levels of Hcy. The decreased levels of Vitamin B12 and folic acid in the cells, increases the serum levels of Hcy thus causing hyperhomocysteinemia. Aim: To estimate Hcy levels in patients with Chronic Liver Disease (CLD). Materials and Methods: This hospital based cross-sectional comparative study was conducted on a total of 100 individuals which included 50 patients of CLD with sub groups- alcoholic liver disease-fibrosis (30), cirrhosis (10), viral hepatitis patients (10) and 50 age and sex matched healthy individuals. Three mL of blood sample was collected under all aseptic conditions for investigations. The samples was allowed to clot and the serum was separated and analysed for estimation of Hcy levels and was estimated on chemiluminiscence machine based on competitive immunoassay. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 16. All the tests were 2 tailed and the p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The study groups included patients with age between 25-65 years, which comprised of 44 males and 6 females. Hcy levels were statistically increased in CLD patients in comparison with controls. Conclusion: While evaluating a patient of CLD, the physician should keep in mind the possibility of increased Hcy levels as one of its risk factors.

Keywords

• alcoholic liver disease
• cirrhosis
• hepatitis
• liver damage
• methionine