Neonatal and maternal factors associated with hepatic dysfunction after birth asphyxia

Background: Liver cell injury commonly occurs after perinatal asphyxia. This study aimed to identify the neonatal and maternal factors related to hepatic dysfunction associated with birth asphyxia.
Methods: A case control study was carried out in Basra comprising 43 asphyxiated newborns, and 57 healthy full terms enrolled as control. Serum levels of liver enzymes [alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)] were measured and compared between the study and control groups. Levels beyond +2SD above the mean of control considered high. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS program version 20. Chi-Square test and ANOVA were used where appropriate, P-value <0.05 was considered as significant. Elevated levels of enzymes were studied in relation to selected neonatal and maternal variables.
Results: Higher levels of liver enzymes were found related to gestational age > 40 weeks, newborn’s body weight > 4 Kg, mother’s age>35 years, parity > 4 children and maternal medical disease. The results were statistically significant (P<0.05). However, no statistical differences were detected regarding newborn’s gender and growth status, maternal education and mode of delivery.
Conclusion: The study highlights the relationship between maternal and neonatal risk factors and perinatal asphyxia associated with hepatic dysfunction.