Effects of Weight Loss on Liver Enzyme Abnormalities Among Oil Refinery Workers

Abstract

Purpose: Occupational exposure of oil refinery workers may change their liver function. The aim of the study was to identify the effect of weight loss on liver enzyme abnormalities of oil refinery workers. Methods: The oil refinery workers in Central part of Iran underwent routine annual medical examination from 2006 to 2007. A total of 66 cases with abnormal liver enzymes were included in this before-after study. Other liver diseases were excluded by detailed investigations including viral hepatitis serology, metabolic and autoimmunity profiles. Forty cases accepted to undergo ultrasonographic examinations. They were educated to increase their physical activities and those with BMI>25 (35 cases) were instructed to lose weight. After 6-8 months, the liver enzymes and BMI were evaluated and those with aminotransferase abnormalities (25 cases) were asked to undergo liver biopsy. Results: All patients were male and their mean age was 36.8±4.15 years. Of 40 cases, 35 cases (87.5%) demonstrated ultrasonographic fatty liver. There was no significant correlation between liver enzyme levels and BMI. The mean BMI significantly decreased after 6-8 months (P=0.03). Fifteen patients (37.5%) revealed improvements in liver enzymes. The mean ± standard deviation of ALT levels before intervention was 58.9±13.4 IU/L which decreased significantly to 51.45±18 after intervention (P=0.045). Of 8 cases accepted that underwent liver biopsy, one patient showed chronic hepatitis, 2 ones demonstrated steatosis and bile stasis and 5 patients revealed fatty liver disease. Conclusion: BMI decrement led to some degrees of improvement in liver enzymes.