What does elevated transaminase levels mean in children?
Disease description:
For the past half month or so, my child hasn't been feeling very well, frequently experiencing fever and drowsiness. The day before yesterday, I took him to the hospital for a checkup and found that his transaminase levels were somewhat elevated. What causes high transaminase levels in children?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Elevated transaminase levels in children are primarily associated with viral infections, particularly hepatotropic viruses. Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, cytomegalovirus infection, and similar conditions commonly cause increased transaminase levels in affected children. Additionally, because the pediatric hepatic and biliary systems are not fully mature, prolonged or high-dose use of certain medications may impair liver function and lead to elevated transaminase levels. Furthermore, regularly consuming certain foods with high heavy metal content, such as preserved eggs (e.g., pine flower eggs), may result in lead poisoning and consequently cause elevated transaminase levels.
