Can Sepsis Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes?
December 28, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, sepsis can cause elevated liver enzymes. Sepsis is a severe and life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection triggers a chain reaction, leading to widespread inflammation and organ dysfunction. When the body is fighting an infection, especially a severe one, it can affect various organs, including the liver.
Liver function tests, which measure levels of liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin, might show elevated levels in individuals with sepsis. Elevated liver enzymes in sepsis are often a reflection of the liver’s response to the infection and the body’s inflammatory state.
Sepsis can impact liver function in multiple ways:
- Direct infection: If the infection causing sepsis directly affects the liver, such as in cases of bacterial or fungal infections that specifically target the liver, it can lead to inflammation and elevated liver enzymes.
- Systemic inflammation: The body’s response to the infection and the release of inflammatory substances can affect liver function and cause a temporary increase in liver enzyme levels.
- Hypoperfusion: In severe cases of sepsis, reduced blood flow to the liver due to shock or decreased circulation can affect liver function and contribute to elevated liver enzymes.
Elevated liver enzymes in the context of sepsis are often a part of a constellation of abnormalities seen in critically ill patients. Monitoring liver function tests in individuals with sepsis is essential for assessing organ function and managing the overall condition.
Management of sepsis involves treating the underlying infection and providing supportive care to stabilize the patient’s condition. Healthcare providers closely monitor various organ functions, including liver function, to guide appropriate treatment strategies in patients with sepsis.