[LIPID PROFILE AND LIVER DISEASES AMONG PATIENTS WITH MORBID OBESITY].

Objectives: The aim of our study was to investigate associations between the lipid profile, liver condition and the level of BMI.

Methods: Our sample consisted of 58 patients: 30 - with morbid obesity and BMI - 40-49 (1 group), 28 - with superobesity, BMI - 50-69 (2 group). Lipids and hepatic functional tests were measured just prior to surgery. Ultrasound examination was used to estimate liver condition. Liver biopsy specimens were obtained at the time of surgery, classified according to the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and steatohepatitis activity score.

Results: Lower level of cholesterol has been found in the first group with morbid obesity. Higher level of triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein has been found in the second group with superobesity (р=0,000 ANOVA). High-density lipoprotein was normal but significantly associated with BMI. The level of low-density lipoprotein was higher in the second group, but the difference between ptoups was not significant. BMI was associated with higher scores of ultrasonographic parameters and severity of steatosis, the increased prevalence of steatohepatitis and it activity. We also realized the positive correlation between ultrasonographic parameters and histological features.

Conclusion: BMI has significantly positive correlations with the level of triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein, ultrasonographic parameters, histological features of steatosis and steatohepatitis. The level of total cholesterol did not reflect all changes of lipid profile.