Liver Function Tests: Insights for Patients with Hepatitis B

Liver function tests

Hello Dr.
Lee,
I have hepatitis B, so I have a habit of regularly checking my liver function, approximately every six months.
Last week, I went to the hospital for a liver function test, and the results showed GOT (88) and GPT (59), which are higher than the normal values.
I believe this might be due to my recent late nights.

Additionally, I find the white blood cell count somewhat concerning, as this time it is lower than the last test (in March).
The results are as follows: March - white blood cells 4300, September - white blood cells 3920.
This time is even lower than the last.
I am unsure of the reason and would like to consult you about it.
Thank you!
By the way, I wonder if my vegetarian diet could be related to my nutritional intake being insufficient.

Ni O, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/24

Dr. Li Xuanshu reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello! You have hepatitis B, and it is essential to have regular follow-ups.
Your liver function tests are slightly elevated, so close monitoring is even more important.
Some individuals naturally have lower white blood cell counts, which may be due to their constitution.
Whether this has pathological significance requires multiple observations for assessment, so follow-up is still necessary.
This is unrelated to your vegetarian diet.

Reply Date: 2004/09/24

More Info

Understanding liver function tests is crucial for patients with Hepatitis B, as these tests provide insights into liver health and the potential progression of liver disease. In your case, with elevated levels of GOT (AST) at 88 and GPT (ALT) at 59, it is important to interpret these results in the context of your Hepatitis B status and lifestyle factors.

Firstly, elevated liver enzymes such as AST and ALT indicate that there is some level of liver inflammation or damage. Normal ranges for these enzymes typically fall below 40 U/L, but this can vary slightly depending on the laboratory. Your results suggest that there is mild to moderate liver inflammation, which could be attributed to several factors, including your Hepatitis B infection, lifestyle habits such as late nights, and possibly dietary choices related to your vegetarian diet.

It's also worth noting that Hepatitis B can cause fluctuations in liver enzyme levels. Chronic Hepatitis B infection can lead to periods of increased liver inflammation, which may not always correlate with symptoms. Regular monitoring is essential, as it helps in assessing the progression of the disease and determining the need for any therapeutic interventions.

Regarding your white blood cell (WBC) count, which has shown a decline from 4300 in March to 3920 in September, this could be indicative of several factors. A low WBC count, known as leukopenia, can result from various causes, including viral infections, nutritional deficiencies, or bone marrow issues. Since you mentioned that you follow a vegetarian diet, it is possible that you may not be getting enough essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, or folate, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood cell production.

Vegetarian diets can be healthy and nutritionally adequate, but they require careful planning to ensure that all nutritional needs are met. If you are concerned that your diet may be lacking, it might be beneficial to consult with a registered dietitian who can help you create a balanced meal plan that includes adequate sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

In summary, your elevated liver enzymes indicate that there is some liver inflammation, which warrants further monitoring and possibly lifestyle adjustments. It is essential to maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to track your liver function and overall health. Additionally, addressing your dietary concerns and ensuring that you are receiving adequate nutrition can help improve your overall well-being and potentially support your immune system in managing Hepatitis B.

If your liver function tests continue to show elevated enzymes or if you experience any new symptoms, such as fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, such as imaging studies or a liver biopsy, to assess the extent of liver damage and determine the best course of action for your treatment and management of Hepatitis B.

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