What does it mean when transaminase and alanine transaminase levels are high?

Generally, elevated levels of transaminase and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) may be caused by strenuous exercise, alcohol consumption, fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Strenuous Exercise

During intense physical activity, liver cell metabolism becomes more active, and some liver cells may experience mild damage due to increased metabolic stress, leading to the release of transaminase and ALT into the bloodstream. It is advisable to engage in moderate exercise, avoid prolonged or high-intensity workouts, and perform proper warm-up and cool-down exercises before and after physical activity.

2. Alcohol Consumption

The metabolism of alcohol in the liver produces harmful substances that damage liver cell membranes, causing the release of transaminase and ALT into the blood, resulting in elevated levels. Limiting alcohol intake or abstaining from alcohol is recommended to reduce liver damage.

3. Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease results from excessive fat accumulation within liver cells due to long-term high-fat diets, lack of physical activity, and other factors. Patients may experience liver cell fat degeneration, increased cell membrane permeability, and subsequent release of transaminase and ALT. Symptoms may include discomfort in the liver area and abdominal distension. Treatment options under medical guidance may include medications such as polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules, silymarin capsules, and compound glycyrrhizic acid tablets.

4. Drug-Induced Liver Injury

Drug-induced liver injury may occur due to long-term use of certain medications that damage liver cells. Harmful substances produced during drug metabolism can injure liver cells, leading to the release of ALT. Symptoms may also include rash and fever. Patients may use medications such as hepatoprotective tablets, tiopronin injections, and diammonium glycyrrhizinate enteric-coated capsules as directed by a physician.

5. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a group of hepatotropic viruses, such as hepatitis viruses. When viral replication is active, significant liver cell damage occurs, releasing large amounts of ALT into the bloodstream. Patients may also experience symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Under medical guidance, treatment options may include entecavir dispersible tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, and diammonium glycyrrhizinate injections.

Maintaining a healthy diet with balanced nutrition, avoiding high-fat and high-calorie foods, and increasing intake of dietary fiber and vitamins are recommended. Additionally, regular liver function tests should be conducted to promptly detect and manage potential liver issues.