Abnormal Liver Enzymes in Coal Tar Refinery Workers of Isfahan.

Background: The effects of occupational exposure on liver function in oil refinery workers are not well known. In this study we evaluated the liver enzyme abnormalities among coal tar refinery workers. Methods: The oil refinery workers in central part of Iran (Isfahan city) underwent routine annual medical examination from 2006 to 2007. A total of 66 cases with abnormal levels of aminotransferases were included in this cross-sectional study. Liver diseases including viral, metabolic and autoimmune hepatitis were excluded by detailed investigations. The relationships of different findings and liver enzymes were evaluated through inferential statistics. Findings: All patients were male with the mean age of 36.7 ± 4.8 years. Thirty eight subjects had dyslipidemia (61.3%). There were significant correlations between triglyceride or cholesterol concentrations and aminotransferases levels. From 40 cases, 35 cases (87.5%) demonstrated ultrasonographic fatty livers. Also, significant correlations were found between cholesterol and Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) levels. There were not significant differences in levels of aminotransferases among different type of work (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Direct occupational exposure to oil refinery products may play an important role in liver enzyme abnormalities. Exposure to coal tar components such as phenols, poly aromatic hydrocarbons chemicals may be a risk factor for NASH (Non-alcoholic Steato-hepatitis). Liver biopsy and long term follow-up can be helpful for definite diagnosis and determination of prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]