Causes of Elevated Transaminase Levels
Disease description:
This week during my physical examination, after the report came out, the doctor told me that I have elevated transaminase levels. I would like to ask, what are the causes of elevated transaminase levels?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Elevated levels of transaminases typically refer to alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the blood exceeding the normal range. The following are common causes of elevated transaminases:
1. Liver disease: Most commonly hepatitis (viral, alcohol-related, or fatty liver), cirrhosis, and liver tumors, which can damage liver cells and lead to the release of transaminases into the bloodstream.
2. Alcohol abuse: Long-term heavy alcohol consumption can damage the liver, causing alcoholic hepatitis or cirrhosis.
3. Medications and toxins: Certain drugs, chemicals, or herbal substances can also cause liver injury, subsequently elevating transaminase levels.
4. Obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common cause of elevated transaminases, especially when associated with metabolic syndrome.
When transaminase levels are elevated, doctors usually recommend further investigations such as liver function tests, viral marker testing, abdominal ultrasound, or liver biopsy to determine the exact cause.
