Abstract

Perinatal asphyxia, a critical global health concern, contributes to significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. Hypoxic hepatic injury (HHI), characterized by elevated hepatic enzymes, is a potential consequence. This study explores the prevalence and implications of hepatitis in newborns with birth asphyxia, focusing on aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. Methodology: Conducted at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Odisha, from December 2020 to November 2022, the study enrolled 200 newborns (100 perinatal asphyxia cases, 100 controls). Gestational age, birth weight, and gender were matched. Serum samples were collected on days 1 and 3, with statistical analysis using IBM SPSS. Results: 68% of asphyxiated newborns showed HIE. ALT, AST, and ALP levels were significantly higher in asphyxiated infants compared to controls (p<0.001). Day 3 ALP showed a significant increase. ALT demonstrated high sensitivity (95.7%) and specificity (88.46%) at a cutoff of 56.3 U/L. Discussion: The study contributes nuanced insights into hepatic enzyme dynamics, emphasizing their potential as early markers of HHI. Consistent findings with existing literature validate the robustness of results. ALT, AST, and ALP levels correlated with HIE severity, highlighting their potential as markers. Conclusion: Birth asphyxia poses a substantial risk of hepatitis, impacting 68% of affected newborns. Elevated ALT, AST, and ALP levels provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic information. ALT, particularly, emerges as a potent diagnostic marker, potentially reshaping early identification and intervention strategies in perinatal asphyxia. Further research is warranted to explore comprehensive liver function tests and establish direct links between hepatic complications and clinical outcomes.

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