Evaluation of Liver Function Markers and Cardiac Isoenzymes in Recovered COVID-19 Patients

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruptions globally with lingering effects on two main organs the liver and cardiovascular system, even after recovery. Although elevated liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (GPT), aspartate aminotransferase (GOT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) are common during the rising phase of COVID-19. Limited research exists on the persistence of these biomarkers in recovered patients. Similarly, cardiac isoenzymes, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH1, LDH2, LDH3, and LDH4) are used as markers for myocardial injury during the infection phase but their post-recovery behavior remains understudied. This study evaluates the levels of liver function markers (GPT, GOT, ALP) and cardiac isoenzymes (LDH1, LDH2, LDH3, LDH4) in COVID-19 patients who have fully recovered. Total 150 patients who had recovered from COVID-19 are defined by symptom resolution for at least 14 days and two consecutive negative RT-PCR tests, were analyzed. Blood samples were collected for liver tests and cardiac isoenzyme profiles. The results show that patients had elevated levels of liver enzymes (GPT and GOT) and cardiac isoenzymes (LDH1 and LDH2) even after recovery. Elevated GPT and GOT levels were observed in 15-20% of patients, with 10% showing abnormal ALP levels. LDH isoenzymes (LDH1 and LDH2) were elevated in 12% of patients particularly who had severe initial infections. These findings suggest that recovery from COVID-19 may not entirely restore liver and cardiac function in all patients and ongoing monitoring of these biomarkers may be required for long-term care and management. Further research with larger sample sizes and longitudinal follow-ups is essential to understand the long-term implications of COVID-19 on liver and heart health.