Question
A child’s alanine aminotransferase (ALT) test result shows 125U/L, higher than the normal range. The child has no past medical history, and an ALT level was found to be elevated in June 2006. After medication and intravenous treatment, the effects were unsatisfactory. Tests for hepatitis A, B, and C were all normal. On January 7, 2007, the ALT value was 85U/L higher than the reference value. What are the possible causes of abnormal elevated alanine aminotransferase levels?
Answer
Elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) typically indicate liver cell damage. The causes of liver cell damage are diverse and include, but are not limited to, viral hepatitis, liver damage caused by drugs or toxins, fatty liver, and autoimmune liver disease. It is recommended to undergo a liver function re-examination, including liver and gallbladder ultrasound, hepatitis B five items test, hepatitis C test, and liver enzyme panel tests to determine the specific cause. At the same time, attention should be paid to whether there has been a recent cold or medication use, as these factors may affect the test results.