What does it mean if serum alanine aminotransferase is elevated?
Disease description:
I went for a check-up this week and had blood tests done. The report showed elevated levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT). I would like to ask the doctor, what does it mean if serum alanine aminotransferase levels are high?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels may be caused by various factors, mainly including:
1. **Liver diseases**: Such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. These conditions can damage liver cells, leading to the release of increased amounts of ALT into the bloodstream.
2. **Physiological factors**: Such as strenuous exercise, excessive fatigue, long-term alcohol consumption, or the use of certain medications. These factors may temporarily elevate ALT levels.
3. **Other diseases**: Such as biliary system disorders, myocarditis, and pyelonephritis may also lead to elevated serum ALT levels.
When elevated serum ALT levels are detected, prompt medical consultation is recommended for further evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
