What does it mean to have high transaminase levels?
Disease description:
When I went to the hospital for a medical checkup, the results showed that my transaminase levels were high. I would like to ask the doctor, what does it mean if transaminase levels are elevated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Elevated transaminases usually refer to increased levels of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) in the blood. These two enzymes are primarily found in liver cells, and their levels rise when liver cells are damaged or die, releasing the enzymes into the bloodstream. The following are common causes that may lead to elevated transaminase levels:
1. Hepatitis: Viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis A, B, C, etc.) is the most common cause, which can lead to acute or chronic hepatitis, thereby increasing transaminase levels.
2. Fatty liver: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) may cause fat accumulation within liver cells, leading to inflammation and elevated transaminase levels.
3. Other diseases: Cardiac diseases, pancreatitis, biliary obstruction, muscle injury, or pregnancy-related liver disorders may also cause mild increases in transaminase levels.
4. Genetic disorders: Certain inherited liver diseases, such as Wilson's disease or alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, can also lead to elevated transaminases.
When elevated transaminase levels are detected, timely medical consultation is recommended.
