Abnormal liver function during pregnancy when blood is drawn

Abnormal liver function during pregnancy may be caused by intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, acute fatty liver disease during pregnancy, viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, or preeclampsia. It is recommended that pregnant women seek medical examination in a timely manner, identify the cause, and receive targeted treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is a unique liver disease during pregnancy, mainly characterized by skin itching and abnormal liver function. This disease may be related to elevated estrogen levels, genetic factors, and environmental factors. Itchy skin often occurs on the palms and soles of the feet, and worsens at night. Liver function tests showed elevated serum bile acids and mild elevation of transaminases. Medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid capsules and adenosylmethionine can be used according to medical advice to improve bile stasis, and fetal monitoring should be strengthened.

2. Acute fatty liver during pregnancy

Acute fatty liver during pregnancy is a serious complication of late pregnancy, characterized by sudden onset, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice, and liver failure. This disease may be related to mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation disorders. Laboratory tests showed a significant increase in transaminase levels and abnormal coagulation function. After diagnosis, the pregnancy should be terminated immediately and liver protection treatment should be given. If necessary, plasma exchange should be performed. The condition of this disease is critical and requires close observation in the intensive care unit.

3. Viral hepatitis

Infection with hepatitis A, B, E and other hepatitis viruses during pregnancy can lead to abnormal liver function. Hepatitis B virus carriers may experience disease activity during pregnancy, manifested as fatigue, decreased appetite, jaundice, etc. Hepatitis virus marker testing is required to confirm the diagnosis. Antiviral drugs such as tenofovir can be used for treatment according to the doctor's advice. Newborns need to be vaccinated with hepatitis B vaccine and immunoglobulin in time after birth.

4. Drug induced liver injury

Some pregnant women may experience elevated liver enzymes due to the use of certain drugs or health supplements. Common hepatotoxic drugs include anti tuberculosis drugs, antipyretic analgesics, and certain traditional Chinese medicine preparations. Manifested as asymptomatic elevation of transaminase, and in severe cases, jaundice may occur. The key to treatment is to immediately stop the suspected medication and, if necessary, follow the doctor's advice to use liver protective drugs such as compound glycyrrhizin tablets and polyene phosphatidylcholine. Severe preeclampsia may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and liver dysfunction. Long term vomiting leads to depletion of liver glycogen and mild elevation of transaminases. Treatment requires sufficient fluid and electrolyte supplementation to correct metabolic disorders. Eat easily digestible foods in small and multiple meals, and receive intravenous nutrition support if necessary. Most patients' liver function gradually returns to normal after the symptoms of mid pregnancy are relieved. When liver function abnormalities occur during pregnancy, pregnant women should maintain sufficient rest and avoid overexertion. The diet should be light and easy to digest, with moderate intake of high-quality protein such as fish and egg whites, and restriction of high-fat foods. Strictly follow the doctor's advice when taking medication, and do not take liver protective drugs or folk remedies on your own. Regularly check liver function and monitor fetal development. Maintain a positive mindset and avoid anxiety affecting the condition. If serious symptoms such as skin yellowing, darkened urine color, and blurred consciousness occur, seek medical attention immediately.