Study of the Liver Function Tests' Predictive Value in the Early Diagnosis of Prediabetes at DMCH

Background: The early detection of prediabetes is crucial in preventing the progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Liver function tests (LFTs), which include measures of enzymes like alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), have been increasingly recognized for their potential role in identifying metabolic disturbances associated with insulin resistance and prediabetes. This study explores the utility of LFTs in predicting prediabetes, potentially offering a simple, cost-effective screening tool for at-risk populations at DMCH. Method: The study conducted a cross-sectional analysis of patients attending the DMCH. We recruited people between the ages of 20 and 65 into two groups: 30 healthy individuals with normal blood sugar levels (normoglycemia) and 30 individuals with prediabetes. We compared liver function test (LFT) parameters across these groups. Statistical tests were employed for the analysis in this study. Result: Results revealed that ALT median was significantly increased in prediabetes compared to normoglycemia (19.5 vs. 13.8 IU/L, respectively; p = 0.002). For AST, there were no significant differences between the two groups investigated (p = 0.231). In the case of ALP, significantly increased medians were observed in prediabetes compared to normoglycemia (90.7 and 73.1 IU/L, respectively; p = 0.005). ROC curve analysis revealed that ALT (AUC = 0.891; 95% CI =0.688 – 0.894; p = 0.001; cut-off value = 16.1IU/L; sensitivity = 72.4%; specificity = 73.3%) and ALP (AUC = 0.824; 95% CI = 0.621 – 0.828; p = 0.001; cut-off value = 80.2 IU/L; sensitivity = 67.2%; specificity = 66.7%) were good predictors in differentiating between prediabetes and normoglycemia. Conclusion: This research concludes that ALT and ALP are effective predictors of prediabetes, but further research is needed to fully comprehend the mechanism underlying the link between liver function enzymes and diabetes risk.