What Are the Causes of Elevated Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)?
Disease description:
I went to the hospital today for a routine physical examination, and one of the test results showed elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT). I’m not sure what this means. What are the possible causes of elevated ALT?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Transaminases are essential “catalysts” in human metabolism and are primarily located within hepatocytes. When hepatocytes are damaged—due to inflammation, necrosis, toxicity, or other causes—transaminases are released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated serum transaminase levels. The normal reference range for transaminases is generally 0–40 U/L; levels exceeding 40 U/L confirm abnormal liver function.
