Liver function indicators in patients with breast cancer before and after detection of hepatic metastases-a retrospective study

BackgroundLiver metastases are common in patients with breast cancer, and determining the factors associated with such metastases may improve both their early detection and treatment. Given that liver function protein level changes in these patients have not been determined, the aim of our study was to investigate liver function protein level changes over time, spanning 6 months before the detection of liver metastasis to 12 months after. MethodsWe retrospectively studied 104 patients with hepatic metastasis from breast cancer who were treated at the Departments of Internal Medicine I and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Medical University of Vienna between 1980 and 2019. Data were extracted from patient records. ResultsAspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase were significantly elevated when compared to normal range 6 months before the detection of liver metastases (p<0.001) Albumin was decreased (p<0.001). The values of aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly increased at the time of diagnosis compared to 6 months prior (p<0.001). Patient- and tumor-specific parameters had no influence on these liver function indicators. Elevated aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.002) and reduced albumin (p = 0.002) levels at the time of diagnosis were associated with shorter overall survival. ConclusionLiver function protein levels should be considered as potential indicators when screening for liver metastasis in patients with breast cancer. With the new treatment options available, it could lead to prolonged life.

Automated summary

This study investigated liver function protein level changes over time in breast cancer patients with liver metastases. Data from 104 patients were analyzed and significant changes in several liver function indicators were observed before and after the detection of liver metastases. Elevated aspartate aminotransferase and reduced albumin levels at diagnosis were associated with shorter overall survival.