What does it mean when alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels are high?
Disease description:
When I went for a medical checkup, the results showed that my alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level was high. I would like to ask the doctor, what does it mean if my alanine aminotransferase level is elevated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Gao Jun
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an important indicator in liver function tests and primarily exists in liver cells. When the level of ALT in the blood increases, it usually indicates that the liver has sustained some degree of damage or disease. Below are some common causes of elevated ALT levels:
1. Physiological factors: If a patient is excessively fatigued, frequently stays up late, consumes large amounts of alcohol, engages in strenuous exercise, or if a female is menstruating, ALT levels may temporarily rise. These are usually physiological factors causing elevated ALT levels.
2. Liver diseases: If a patient has liver diseases such as viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, drug-induced hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer, ALT levels may become elevated.
3. Diseases of other organ systems: Since ALT is also present in other organs and systems such as the brain, heart, and kidneys, conditions like myocarditis, myocardial infarction, or renal insufficiency may also lead to elevated ALT levels.
4. Alcohol abuse: Long-term and heavy alcohol consumption can damage liver cells, leading to elevated ALT levels.
5. Medications or toxins: Certain medications, chemicals, or toxins have toxic effects on the liver, such as specific prescription drugs, herbal remedies, and alcohol.
6. Transient factors: Strenuous exercise, pregnancy, obesity, or rapid weight loss over a short period may temporarily affect ALT levels.
