Linking Fatty Liver, Liver Function Abnormalities and Calculus Cholecystitis: A Hospital-Based Study

Abstract

Background: Calculus cholecystitis is a prevalent hepatobiliary condition treated by cholecystectomy. Evidence suggests an association with fatty liver disease and their co-existence may worsen outcomes and increase healthcare burdens. This study aimed to assess the association between calculus cholecystitis, abnormal liver function tests and fatty liver disease.

Material and methods: A hospital-based, observational cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Medical College for Women and Hospital, Dhaka. A total of 50 patients diagnosed with calculus cholecystitis were enrolled after obtaining informed written consent. Data on socio-demographics, clinical features and laboratory findings were collected using a structured questionnaire. Hepatobiliary ultrasonography was performed to detect gallstones and fatty liver.

Results: The mean age of participants was 39±14.2 years, with the majority (56%) aged between 30 and 50 years. A female predominance was observed (54%). Liver function tests revealed mean values for total bilirubin, AST, ALT and ALP as 0.74±0.56 mg/dL, 33.1±14.3 U/L, 34.9±14.3 U/L and 115.3±91 U/L, respectively. Lipid profile assessment showed mean triglyceride and total cholesterol levels of 144.7±99.7 mg/dL and 187.2±44.1 mg/dL, respectively. Fatty liver was detected in 19 (38%) of the 50 patients with calculus cholecystitis. Those with fatty liver exhibited significantly higher AST (40.7±5.41 vs. 36.3±6.7 U/L) and ALT (41.7±4.37 vs. 37.1±6.54 U/L) levels compared to those without fatty liver (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The study found a substantial relation between calculus cholecystitis and fatty liver, marked by elevated cholesterol and liver enzymes. This suggests fatty liver may worsen liver function in gallstone patients, highlighting the need for further research and integrated management

IAHS Medical Journal Vol 8(2), December 2025; 49-54