Increased alanine transaminase

Increased Alanine Transaminase (ALT) levels refer to a higher than normal concentration of alanine transaminase in the blood. Alanine transaminase, also known as serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme primarily found in the liver. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids and glucose. Elevated ALT levels are an important biomarker for liver damage or injury, as they often indicate that liver cells are leaking this enzyme into the bloodstream.

Causes

Increased ALT levels can be attributed to a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

• Hepatitis (viral or alcoholic)
• Fatty liver disease (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or alcoholic liver disease)
• Liver cirrhosis
• Hemochromatosis
• Medication-induced liver injury (e.g., from acetaminophen or statins)
• Liver cancer

Symptoms

While elevated ALT itself does not cause symptoms, the underlying conditions leading to increased ALT levels may present symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of elevated ALT levels is typically made through a blood test, often as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) or liver function test (LFT). Further diagnostic tests may be required to determine the underlying cause of the elevated levels, including:

• Imaging tests (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan, MRI)
• Liver biopsy
• Additional blood tests to screen for specific liver diseases

Treatment

Treatment for increased ALT levels focuses on addressing the underlying cause. This may involve:

• Lifestyle changes (e.g., diet, exercise, alcohol cessation)
• Medication to treat the specific liver condition
• In severe cases, liver transplantation

Prevention

Preventive measures to maintain healthy ALT levels and liver function include:

• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Vaccination against hepatitis A and B
• Avoiding unnecessary medications and toxins

See Also

• Liver function tests
• Aspartate transaminase
• Bilirubin
• Albumin