What causes elevated transaminase levels?
Disease description:
Recently, during a hospital check-up, I was found to have elevated transaminase levels. I haven't paid much attention to these matters before. May I ask what causes elevated transaminase levels?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
Elevated transaminases typically refer to levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and/or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in blood tests that are higher than the normal range. This may be caused by various factors:
1. Viral hepatitis infection: Such as viral hepatitis A, B, or C, where viruses damage liver cells, leading to the release of transaminases into the bloodstream.
2. Biliary tract diseases: Conditions such as biliary obstruction, gallstones, or bile duct tumors can affect normal bile excretion, causing liver cell damage and elevated transaminase levels.
3. Medications or toxic substances: Certain drugs (e.g., antibiotics, antiepileptic medications, chemotherapy drugs), alcohol, or other toxic substances may cause liver cell injury, resulting in increased transaminase levels.
4. Muscle diseases: Muscle damage or inflammation may also lead to elevated AST levels.
5. Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus may damage the liver, causing liver cell necrosis and elevated transaminase levels.
If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
