Isolated elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
May 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), also known as alanine transaminase, when elevated alone, may be caused by non-pathological factors, or possibly by pathological conditions such as myocarditis or pyelonephritis. Besides these causes, viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and other conditions could also lead to increased ALT levels. When the condition is severe, a detailed medical examination at the hospital is necessary to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Under normal circumstances, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), also known as serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), may be elevated due to non-pathological factors. However, it could also result from pathological conditions such as myocarditis or pyelonephritis. Treatment should be based on the underlying cause. The specific details are as follows:
1. Non-pathological factors
Inadequate sleep and chronic excessive alcohol consumption can impair liver and kidney function, preventing the proper metabolism of alanine aminotransferase, which then accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels. It is important to ensure sufficient sleep, avoid staying up late, and reduce alcohol intake. No special medical treatment is required in such cases.
2. Pathological factors
1) Myocarditis
Patients with myocarditis may experience muscle pain, general weakness, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. In severe cases, myocardial damage can lead to abnormal secretion of alanine aminotransferase, resulting in elevated levels. Treatment may include medications such as coenzyme Q10 capsules, vitamin C tablets, and ribavirin granules, taken as prescribed by a physician.
2) Pyelonephritis
Patients with pyelonephritis may develop body swelling and proteinuria. Severe cases can impair normal kidney function, causing accumulation of alanine aminotransferase in the body and thus increased levels. Treatment may include antibiotics such as ampicillin capsules, levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, or cefuroxime axetil tablets, taken under a doctor's guidance.
Besides the above causes, elevated ALT levels may also be due to viral hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and other conditions. When symptoms are severe, patients should go to the hospital for thorough examination to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.
