The prevalence and clinical factors contributing to elevated aspartate aminotransferase levels among diabetic patients attending Henrob Hospital, Zzana, limited in Wakiso. A cross-sectional study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/6bambj06Keywords:
Prevalence, Elevated AST levels, Clinical factors, Diabetic patients, Henrob Hospital, ZzanaAbstract
Introduction
Elevated aspartate aminotransferase AST levels are common in diabetic patients and may reflect hepatic and extra-hepatic complications. Data on the prevalence and clinical factors associated with AST elevation among diabetic patients in Uganda are limited. The study aims to determine the prevalence of elevated AST levels and the clinical factors contributing to it among diabetic patients attending Henrob Hospital, Zzana, Uganda.
Methodology
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted through review of medical and laboratory records of 150 diabetic patients using a structured data extraction form. The study was carried out at Henrob Hospital Zzana, Wakiso District, between May and June. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and clinical factors were analysed using descriptive statistics. Elevated AST was defined as values above the laboratory reference range of greater than 40 IU/L.
Results
The study involved 150 respondents, of whom 67.3% (101) were male, and 32.6% (49) were female. The prevalence of elevated AST among diabetic patients was 37.3% 56/150. Males had a higher prevalence 21.3% than their females couterparts 16%. The leading clinical factors associated with elevated AST were hemolysis 32.7%, renal infarction 11.3%, cerebral infarction 8.0%, and malignant/non-malignant conditions 5.3%. Pulmonary embolism 4.0% and acute coronary syndrome 1.3% contributed less, while skeletal muscle damage showed no association.
Conclusion
Elevated AST is common among diabetic patients at Henrob Hospital Zzana, with a higher burden in males. Hemolysis and vascular complications are the primary clinical contributors, reflecting the regional disease burden. Routine monitoring of liver enzymes, particularly in male patients and those with hemolytic or vascular conditions, is recommended for early detection and management of complications.
RecommendationThe results highlight the need for routine monitoring of liver enzymes, particularly in male patients and those with hemolytic or vascular complications, to enable early detection and management.
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