Prolonged elevation of transaminase concentration in children with unsuspected myopathy
K. B. Schwarz, G. C. Burris, D. E. deMello, J. S. Hyams, J. A. Biller, M. G. Maksimak, H. S. Winter and R. J. Grand
Prolonged elevation of the serum transaminase concentration in an
asymptomatic child is usually thought to be secondary to liver disease.
Four children with unexplained persistent elevation of serum transaminase
concentration were referred to a pediatric gastroenterologist for studies
of liver disease. Subsequent evaluation disclosed abnormal muscle biopsy
findings in all four patients. This experience suggests that an appropriate
workup for occult myopathy is indicated in such patients before invasive
diagnostic procedures for evaluation of liver disease are undertaken.
