Liver Enzyme Profile of Hepatitis B Positive Blood Donors in Enugu State University Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major global health problem. This is particularly seen through blood donation, where many carriers are asymptomatic and can unknowingly transmit the virus. This study addresses a gap in local data by investigating the liver enzyme profiles of HBV-positive blood donors at the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital. We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study from September to November 2024, enrolling 170 voluntary blood donors. Blood samples were screened for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using a rapid diagnostic strip, and the liver enzymes—aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)—were measured using standard biochemical assays. Questionnaires were also used to collect socio-demographic data and assess HBV awareness.
The study found a 17.5% HBsAg seroprevalence among the 97 donors included in the final analysis. A high level of HBV awareness (81.4%) was observed, with most knowledge gained from health workers. The donor population was predominantly male (89.7%), and the highest prevalence of HBV-positive cases (54.6%) was in the 26–35 age group. The liver enzyme profiles of the 17 HBsAg-positive donors showed mildly elevated levels, particularly for ALP. The mean values were: AST 17.82 U/L (range 5.0–38.0), ALP 62.02 U/L (range 22.1–108.1), and ALT 11.12 U/L (range 4.0–26.0). These mild elevations suggest potential subclinical liver damage, consistent with either a mild acute or chronic viral hepatitis, emphasizing that even asymptomatic carriers can have subtle liver pathology. The findings highlight the critical need for continued rigorous screening and further clinical investigation of seropositive donors, including comprehensive follow-up and advanced testing (e.g., HBV DNA), to ensure transfusion safety and mitigate long-term health risks.