It is important to understand that abnormal liver enzymes are elevated levels of liver enzymes in the blood, indicating potential liver damage or dysfunction. This blog post provides a concise overview of abnormal liver enzymes, covering their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Elevated liver enzymes can be caused by several factors, including:
Hepatitis (viral, autoimmune, or alcoholic), fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer can result in inflammation and elevated enzyme levels in the liver.
Certain medications, such as acetaminophen, statins, antibiotics, and antifungal drugs, can cause liver damage and increase enzyme levels.
Excessive alcohol consumption can result in liver inflammation and elevated liver enzymes.
Fat accumulation in the liver due to obesity, insulin resistance, or metabolic syndrome can cause nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Liver inflammation and elevated enzyme levels can be caused by viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex virus.
Liver inflammation and elevated liver enzymes can be caused by autoimmune diseases like autoimmune hepatitis.
Usually, abnormal liver enzyme levels do not cause specific symptoms on their own. However, underlying liver conditions or diseases may cause symptoms such as:
Tiredness and lack of energy are signs of fatigue.
Yellowing of the skin and eyes is called jaundice.
An upper right abdominal pain or discomfort.
Vomiting and nausea: Feelings of nausea and vomiting.
Decreased appetite and unintended weight loss are symptoms of loss of appetite.
Fluid retention can cause swelling in the abdomen or legs.
A healthcare provider may perform the following diagnostic assessments to diagnose abnormal liver enzymes:
Tests to measure liver enzyme levels, such as ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).
To assess liver structure and detect abnormalities, imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used.
A liver biopsy is sometimes performed to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis and to determine the extent of liver damage.
Depending on the underlying cause, abnormal liver enzymes may require the following treatment:
Medications that damage the liver should be discontinued or adjusted.
A healthy lifestyle includes maintaining a balanced diet, limiting alcohol consumption, and exercising regularly.
Underlying Liver Disease Treatment: Treatment for specific liver diseases or conditions, such as antiviral medications to treat hepatitis or lifestyle modifications to treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Regular monitoring of liver enzyme levels and follow-up appointments with healthcare providers to assess liver function and adjust treatment if necessary.
The following steps should be taken to prevent abnormal liver enzymes:
Lifestyle Choices: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, and consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Safety with medications: Using medications as directed by healthcare providers and avoiding unnecessary use of hepatotoxic medications.
To prevent viral hepatitis infections, one should get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B viruses.
Monitoring liver health regularly and detecting abnormalities early with regular medical checkups and screenings.
