The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. A specialist consultation is required!
OKSANA asks:
Hello!
I have 7 weeks of pregnancy, ALT 276I AST 132, a week ago at 6 weeks I had ALT 126, AST 35, at 5 weeks ALT 564, at 4 weeks ALT 126 AST 51. All this time I was taking chophytol 2t 3 times, a week ago the dose was raised 3 tons 3 times a day. Why is it dangerous for a child. Is it possible to take Essentiale, one doctor says it is possible, the other does not. They also advised me to see a good hepatologist. Thanks for your reply.
OKSANA asks:
Hello! In July 2011, there were ALT-56, AST-52, alkaline phosphatase -211, GGT - 51, total protein - 79, total bilirubin - 17. Liver ultrasound - cholangitis, no increase. In feces - eggs of opisthorchis. In December 2011 ALT - 91, AST - 70, alkaline phosphatase - 208. Drank HEPTRAL for a month (2 tablets per day). Now ALT -114, AST - 68. Why ???? Markers of hepatitis B, C are negative. Please advise what it can be? Is it worth doing an MRI of the liver?
Rita asks:
The child is 4.5 months old. Increased AST - 39.6 at a rate of 32 U / L. ALT is normal - 32.6 U / L (at a rate of 33 U / L), GGTP is at a rate of 22.0 U / L (rate 6-42U / L), total bilirubin is normal - 5.4 μmol / L (normal 21μmol / L), direct normal - 1.43 μmol / L (normal 3.4 μmol / L), indirect normal - 3.97 μmol / L (normal 1.5-17 μmol / L). Hepatitis B and C - the result is negative. The child takes L-theroxin for the diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism and encephabol for the diagnosis of hypertonicity of the legs. What can the result of the analysis mean?
In the event that the liver function is preserved, viral hepatitis is excluded, it is necessary to consult a cardiologist, because an isolated increase in this enzyme may indicate damage to the cardiovascular system, or muscle damage. For more information about the interpretation of the examination results, see the section of the same name by clicking on the link: Biochemical blood test.
Alexey asks:
I went to donate blood, they refused, they said ALT was elevated, 61 units. Previously, he successfully participated in donation. For the last six months I have been actively engaged in the gym, swinging. Could this be related?
Yes, increased physical activity can cause an increase in ALT, however, in order to exclude diseases of the liver and pancreas (pancreatitis can be asymptomatic in the early stages and is accompanied by an increase in ALT), you need to do an ultrasound of the abdominal organs. You can read more about the causes of pancreatitis, clinical manifestations of this disease, methods of its diagnosis and treatment in our thematic section with the same name: Pancreatitis.
Vladimir asks:
I'm 27 years old,
blood biochemistry showed
alt - 761
ast - 516
ultrasound obp showed an increase in the liver up to 18.5 cm
and spleen up to 71 cm
Tell me what could be?
In this case, it is necessary to consult with an infectious disease hepatologist to exclude liver damage by viral hepatitis.It is recommended to donate blood for liver markers of viral hepatitis, only after receiving the results of the examination, the doctor will make an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, prescribe adequate treatment. For more information about the interpretation of the examination results, see the section of the same name by clicking on the link: Biochemical blood test. Read more about liver damage by clicking on the link: Hepatitis.
Olga asks:
Hello. Biochemical analysis of blood showing, chro ALT and AST are increased, respectively, 93 and 57. The gestation period is 13 weeks. Why is it dangerous for a baby?
In this case, it is necessary to consult with an infectious disease hepatologist to exclude liver damage by viral hepatitis, as well as toxic liver damage. It is recommended to donate blood for liver markers of viral hepatitis, only after receiving the results of the examination, the doctor will make an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, prescribe adequate treatment, according to your status. Read more about the interpretation of the examination results in the section of the same name by clicking on the link: Biochemical liver tests. Read more about liver damage by clicking on the link: Hepatitis.
Marina asks:
Hello. After analysis, my husband (he is 24 years old) has indicators of ALT-262, AST-135. Tell me what kind of disease they are afraid of. And can it be the reason that he drank a lot for a whole month before taking the tests? thanks
Please specify the units of measurement for an adequate interpretation of the data. In the event that your husband has been drinking alcohol for a long time, toxic liver damage may occur and these indicators may be increased (toxic-alcoholic hepatitis). It is necessary to consult with a hepatologist as soon as possible to make an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, to prescribe adequate treatment. Read more about liver dysfunction in a series of articles by clicking on the link: Hepatitis.
Marina comments:
the fact is that every year he undergoes a medical examination at work. And last year I was absolutely healthy, and now there is such a strong excess of the norm. During this time, could some terrible disease have developed?
With prolonged intake of alcohol, toxic damage to the liver could occur, with the exclusion of alcohol from consumption, as well as detoxification, the liver function will be restored, only it is necessary to carry out treatment in a timely manner. Read more about alcoholic liver damage by clicking on the link: Hepatitis.
Maria asks:
Hello! Please tell me, my boyfriend, when passing a urine test, revealed bile and protein. but the biochemical blood test AST and ALT are normal. can it be hepatitis C?
In this situation, it is necessary to pass a detailed biochemical blood test - liver function tests. Liver tests, in addition to ALT and AST, include such indicators as albumin, bilirubin (total, direct and indirect), GGT, total protein and alkaline phosphatase. Also, you need to repeat the general urine test. It is advisable to carry out the listed examinations in a good laboratory. Only on the basis of the results of repeated tests, it will be possible to exclude the laboratory error (in the analysis of urine) and more accurately draw up a plan for further examination. With the test results, you will need to seek personal advice from a hepatologist or gastroenterologist. For more information about the interpretation of blood and urine tests, you can read in our medical information sections dedicated to these diagnostic methods: Blood test and Urinalysis.
Maria comments:
thanks for your reply! the fact is that after the urine analysis, when they found out that protein and bile were present, they did not send him for a second urine test, which surprised us ... but they immediately said that it looked like hepatitis C and sent him to be tested in another laboratory, in which they were immediately told whether or not hepatitis C was detected. You have to wait 3 days for the result. According to the receipt, we paid for the following types of services in this laboratory: marker HBc Ag antibodies; marker B-ren B HBs-antigen; marker of hepatitis C (anti-HCV). according to these analyzes that we paid for, can we say for sure whether there is hepatitis or not? or do you need the analyzes about which you wrote?
These tests are used to diagnose hepatitis C. Yes, by their results it will be possible to judge whether there is a hepatitis virus in the body or not. But to find out the state of the liver, liver tests will need to be passed (this analysis is included in the standard for examining liver diseases). For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of various hepatitis, as well as about the prevention of the occurrence of diseases of this group, you can read in our medical information section with the same name: Hepatitis.
nano asks:
dobri den ya zdala analiz pskajite pojalusto narmalna umenya analizi Eritrociti 4.42, pokazatel 128, Leraciti 10.0, AST17, ALT17, bilirubin8.8, vochevina3.3, kreatinin82, Saxr5.2 BELOK80
Ram asks:
Hello. In my blood tests, the content of ALT (5 times), AST and direct bilirubin is higher than normal (but not so significant). Ultrasound showed an irregular shape of the gallbladder (with constriction) and increased size. There is also a plaque in the tongue. The otsalnye organs are in order. Tell me what this could mean ??
In this case, it is recommended to consult a hepatologist and take a blood test for markers of viral hepatitis. After you receive the results of the examination, the specialist doctor will make an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, prescribe adequate treatment or conduct an additional examination. Read more about liver damage by clicking on the link: Hepatitis. Read more about the interpretation of the examination results in the section of the same name by clicking on the link: Biochemical liver tests.
Olya asks:
pregnancy 29 weeks. Yesterday I was discharged from the hospital, I had calculous cholecystitis ... today I passed anazils and showed ALT 101.98, AST 33.4, ALP 110.47 ... why are they increased, if the pain is gone and what to do ? it is dangerous during pregnancy? and in urine acetone 50 ((((
An increase in liver function tests can be associated with both calculous cholecystitis and a common pathology called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnant women. These indicators do not immediately return to normal after the passage of clinical symptoms, and in some cases they can remain elevated until the end of pregnancy. An increase in acetone in the urine should also not be during pregnancy. The most common causes of its appearance are: starvation, vomiting, dehydration, anemia. I recommend that you personally consult with the gynecologist you are seeing, as well as with your local therapist regarding further treatment. You can learn more about the disease cholecystitis from the thematic section of our website: Cholecystitis
Marina asks:
Hello! A 7 month old baby sometimes smells acetone from the mouth. We passed a biochemical blood test, increased AST-46, SCF-1104. The ultrasound scan is all right. Please tell me why the analyzes are so increased? And what does it mean? Thanks.
In childhood, the level of alkaline phosphatase is higher than normal, this is due to the active growth of bone tissue, however, an increase in alkaline phosphatase to such figures can be observed with stagnation of bile, an increase in AST, and can also be noted with stagnation of bile, in addition, AST and ALT may increase with pancreatitis (with hepatitis, ALT and AST rise to higher numbers than those given in your question). To clarify the state of the pancreas, you can make the child an analysis of feces (coprogram), which will assess the effectiveness of the processes of digestion and absorption. You can read more about the interpretation of the results of various tests in our sections: blood test and feces analysis.
Dmitry asks:
Hello!
In the analysis of blood, I have the following indicators: ALT - 346, AST - 104
What does it mean if I have a duodenal ulcer for the first time, after passing ultrasound of the liver and bile - everything is ideal !!!
I do not drink or smoke.
Please help with an answer.
thanks
Please indicate the units of measurement of these laboratory indicators, after which we will be able to answer in detail all your questions. You can get more detailed information about your main disease from the thematic section of our website by clicking on the link: Stomach ulcer
Evgenia asks:
Good day! I'm 28 years old. A month and a half ago, I started to feel sick from everything + dullness of extreme fatigue. Appetite was good, but could only eat oatmeal with bananas. Slight aches and pains in the right hypochondrium. And with the heart there are some oddities (sometimes gurgling, then the throbbing pain is weak), slight panic and sweating immediately after that. Now the heart does not bother. I even did a pregnancy test. Not pregnant. The general blood test is good, so is the urine test. Biochemistry was terrifying. ALT 740, ATC 800. The rest is normal. Sent to do tests for hepatitis B and C. The result is negative. The ultrasound showed that everything is fine. As a child, I was ill with Jaundice. Six months ago (as part of an allergic reaction to midge bites) I did biochemistry - everything was fine. The first strange thing happened at the stamotologist in January, when the reaction to ultracaine was inadequate, while I was always injected with this particular anesthesia and everything was fine. Now it is scheduled to do biochemistry again. I'm waiting for the day. I don’t know what to think.
Laboratory diagnostics
Joseph asks:
Today I donated blood for biochemistry, due to the fact that the military enlistment office requires.
So the ALT and AST readings surprised me a little because the norm on the sheet is 0.1-0.5 / 0.8 and the result showed 15 and 16, please tell me what to expect in this case?
and I also read that the increase is possible due to obesity, tell me is this true?
Normally, in men, the AST level is up to 41 U / L, ALT - up to 41 U / L. Perhaps your laboratory has other units of measure. Please clarify this question where you took the survey. An increase in these indicators is possible with obesity, metabolic disorders, hepatitis, cirrhosis. You can get more information on this issue in the thematic section of our website: Laboratory diagnostics asks:
I am 57 years old and have a biochemical blood test. all indicators are normal except for AST-41.2, ALT-18.3. Why?
An increase in ALT and AST values occurs in liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis), with pancreatitis, myocardial infarction, muscle injuries, burns. I recommend that you personally visit a general practitioner, undergo an in-depth examination (ultrasound of internal organs, blood test for markers of hepatitis, ECG, visit an infectious disease doctor), after which the attending physician will be able to prescribe you adequate treatment. You can get more information on the issue you are interested in in the thematic sections of our website by clicking on the following links: Hepatitis, Pancreatitis, Laboratory diagnostics
To assess the performance of the liver, heart, pancreas, spleen, transaminases are used - alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartic transaminase (AST). Specific proteins are present in all cells of the body and are involved in the formation of amino acids. If in the biochemical blood test the ALT and AST indicators are increased, we can talk about the development of diseases.
Elevated ALT and AST indicators indicate the development of diseases
Functions of ALT and AST in the body
Intracellular enzymes - transaminases or aminotransferases - perform a transport function in the body, actively participating in the formation of amino acids:
- alanine aminotransferase transfers alanine;
- aspartic transaminase - aspartic acid.
Hence the name of specific proteins. In addition, each group has its own place in the human body. The maximum concentration of ALT is observed in the liver, and AST - in the heart.
Transaminases are found only inside cells, and enter the blood as a result of tissue destruction. Therefore, an increase in aminotransferases in the blood indicates pathological processes - pancreatitis, hepatitis, heart attack.
Enzyme indices
The presence of small amounts of aminotransferases in the blood is considered normal. The coefficient may differ for adults and children, men and women. Indicators during pregnancy are slightly overestimated.
Table "Norma ALT and AST"
| Patient category | Normal values, U / l | |
| ALT | AST | |
| Among women | Up to 31 | Up to 31 |
| In men | Up to 45 | Up to 47 |
| In infants from the first day to 6 days of life | Up to 49 | Up to 105 |
| For a child under 6 months | Up to 60 | Up to 83 |
| In children from 6 months to 1 year | Up to 55 | Up to 59 |
| 1-3 years | Up to 34 | Up to 38 |
| 3-6 years old | 29-32 | |
| 6 to 15 years old | Up to 39 | |
| During pregnancy | Up to 32 | Up to 30 |
Why ALT and AST indicators are higher than normal
To identify the specific cause of the increase in markers in blood biochemistry, it is important to determine the extent of the isolated increase in ALT or AST transferases.
- A slight increase (several times higher than the norm) occurs with viral hepatitis, fatty liver damage, steatohepatosis. Other markers of blood biochemistry also change - bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase increase.
- Moderate increase (from 5 to 20 times) - inflammation in the liver tissues of a chronic or acute nature, viral, alcoholic hepatitis, the development of cirrhosis.
- A pronounced increase in aminotransferases (more than 20 times) is a severe course of drug or toxic destruction of the liver, acute hepatitis, pancreatitis or atrophy of liver tissue, myocarditis, ischemia. Not only transaminases increase, but also cholesterol, bilirubin.
- Critical indicators (exceeding 2000–3000 U / L) are evidence of the death of the muscle areas of the heart (extensive myocardial infarction), cancer cells in the liver tissues, overdose of certain drugs (acute intoxication).
Alcohol should not be consumed a week before testing
What to do if ALT and AST are higher than normal
With an increase in plasma transaminases, it is not the symptoms that need to be treated, but the pathogen. Only after an accurate diagnosis has been made, the doctor can prescribe drug therapy, which is recommended to be reinforced with folk remedies.
Medication treatment
Depending on the reason for the increase in aminotransferases, the specialist prescribes effective agents for the treatment of a specific disease.
Table "Groups of drugs to reduce ALT and AST in the blood"
| Drug groups | Name of drugs |
| Hepatoprotectors (restore liver function, promote the regeneration of damaged tissues, protect the organ from various intoxication) | Geptral, Karsil, Ovesol, Essentiale forte, Phosphogliv, Hofitol, |
| Enzymes (eliminate inflammation in the pancreas, restore damaged tissues in organs) | Festal, Enzym forte, Mezim, Pancreatim |
| Analgesics and antispasmodics (for relief of acute pain syndromes) | No-shpa, Gastrocepin, Atropine, Papaverine, Platyphyllin |
| Cardiac drugs (for the treatment of diseases of the heart and blood vessels) | Digitoxin, Quinidine, Midodrin, Timolol, Amlodipine, Carvedilol |
Medical treatment is prescribed exclusively by a specialist after a complete and thorough examination. It is forbidden to take medications on your own without an accurate diagnosis.
How to lower the level with folk remedies
It is possible to normalize the work of internal organs and lower aminotransferases in the blood with the help of traditional medicine.
Collecting herbs for liver diseases
It is necessary to mix 20 g of celandine with immortelle and St. John's wort (40 g each). Place the crushed raw materials in a thermos and pour 1.5 liters of boiling water. The infusion is ready for use in 10-12 hours. You need to take the medicine 4 times a day for 14 days. This will help reduce transaminase levels by repairing liver cells.
It is better to cook herbal decoction in a thermos.
Infusion of adonis for cardiac pathologies
Brew 1 tsp in a glass of boiling water. medicinal herbs, wrap and let it brew for at least 2 hours. The liquid must be taken on an empty stomach, and then several more times during the day. Dosage - 1 tbsp. l. The course of treatment is 12-15 days.
Adonis infusion helps with heart disease
Crushed plant seeds (1 tsp) Brew 250 ml of boiling water and let it brew for 15–20 minutes. Strain and drink ½ cup in the morning and evening, half an hour before meals. Duration of treatment is 2-3 weeks. The remedy is effective for pancreatitis, hepatitis, liver ischemia. Quickly brings ALT and AST markers back to normal.
Milk thistle decoction will help lower aminotransferase in blood
Place dandelion flowers in a jar (0.5 l) and pour vodka (150 ml). Liquids need to stand for at least a day to acquire medicinal properties. You need to take the tincture daily for 2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day. The results are visible after a week of treatment. Therapy is 14–21 days.
Dandelion flower tincture normalizes ALT and AST
Chopped hairs of corn cobs (2 tsp) pour 400 ml of boiling water. After 20 minutes, strain and take 1 glass twice a day for 14-21 days.
Corn silk effectively lowers aminotransferases
Lowering transaminases with folk remedies should be agreed with the attending physician. A specialist will individually select recipes and suggest a dosage that will not harm your health.
Diet
To quickly normalize the ALT and AST levels in the blood, you need to strictly adhere to the diet. The diet should be enriched with foods with vitamin D, and completely exclude unhealthy foods.
Table "Allowed and prohibited foods with an increased level of transaminases"
| What should be in the diet | Vegetables and herbs - carrots, zucchini, broccoli, parsley, dill, celery |
| Nuts | |
| All kinds of fresh berries and fruits, as well as steamed or baked. | |
| Lean meats - veal, beef, chicken, rabbit, turkey. Chicken eggs | |
| Fish products - caviar, cod liver | |
| Low-fat fermented milk products | |
| What to give up | Fatty meat and all types of sausages |
| Fried, fatty, spicy dishes, smoking | |
| Pickles and marinades | |
| Any drinks with gas | |
| Fast food |
Prophylaxis
You can prevent an increase in aminotransferases if you adhere to the basic preventive measures:
- Lead a healthy lifestyle, play sports, give preference to walking.
- Stop consuming junk food and alcohol completely. No smoking.
- Monitor physical labor, do not overwork the body.
Hiking is great for your health
If you carefully monitor your health and do not ignore the first symptoms of diseases, you can prevent the development of severe pathologies.
The transaminases ALT and AST in the human body perform an important function - they are involved in the synthesis of amino acids. Enzymes are found inside the cells of vital organs. A sharp increase in a specific protein in the blood may indicate serious abnormalities in the functioning of the liver, heart, or pancreas. The content of ALT and AST helps to identify many diseases in the early stages. That is why it is so important to monitor such markers and regularly donate blood biochemistry.
ALT - alanine aminotransferase. It is a specific enzyme involved in the production and degradation of proteins. It is synthesized by cells of various organs: liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, heart muscles. Normally, a small amount enters the bloodstream. An ALT blood test is a common diagnostic test.
Diagnostics based on ALT analysis
The determination of the level of alanine aminotransferase is carried out as part of a general biochemical blood test. Complaints for which a blood test for ALT is prescribed are:
- Increased fatigue;
- Decreased appetite
- The onset of weakness in the body;
- Pain on the right side of the abdomen;
- Discoloration of urine;
- Yellowness of the skin;
- Pain in the region of the heart;
- Desire for nausea.
It is mandatory to determine the level of aminotransferase in patients suffering from obesity, diabetes mellitus, liver disease.
Important! Blood donation is carried out in the morning on an empty stomach. It is not recommended to consume alcoholic beverages and fatty foods the day before the analysis.
You should also refrain from taking strong medications. The results of the study can be influenced by the psychoemotional state of a person and physical stress.
Exceeding the threshold of the norm
In medical research, the upper threshold for ALT is important. The limit for adult men is 45 units / l, for women 34 units / l. An increase in ALT in a blood test indicates an inflammatory process in the body. Below are the diseases that cause such a pathology.
- Pancreatitis Severe damage to the pancreas. It occurs due to the appearance of a tumor that blocks the enzyme ducts. As a result, the accumulated digestive enzymes begin to digest the pancreas itself. Death is possible;
- Hepatitis. Liver disease. It is characterized by inflammation of the tissues of the organ. It is subdivided into several types. Hepatitis C is considered the most dangerous. The latter often becomes chronic and can cause cirrhosis of the liver. Common causes of hepatitis are: toxic damage to liver cells (eg, alcohol), viral infection;
- Myocardial infarction. The most serious heart disease. It is characterized by the death of some parts of the heart muscle, due to a critical decrease in blood circulation. There are many reasons for the pathology. Basic: smoking, hypertension, obesity, diabetes mellitus, sedentary lifestyle.
There are reasons for exceeding the norm of ALT in a blood test that are not related to the listed diseases:
- Chemotherapy;
- Injuries accompanied by damage to the muscles of the body;
- Taking potent drugs;
- Physical and emotional stress;
- Eating fatty fried foods
- Taking drugs.
Important! The main recommendations aimed at reducing the likelihood of these diseases will be: proper nutrition, refusal to use drugs (including alcohol, nicotine), moderate physical activity, reducing stressful situations in life.
De Rittis coefficient
One of the most important research methods is considered to be the comparison of ALT level with the level of AST - aspartate aminotransferase. The latter is also an endogenous enzyme involved in the synthesis of amino acids. Aminotransferases have similar cut-off blood levels. The diagnosis of a particular pathology depends on the balance of ALT and AST. The AST / ALT ratio is characterized by the de Rittis coefficient.
Important! The normal value of the de Rittis coefficient is 1.33-1.75 U / L.
A decrease in the norm below 1 U / L will mean viral liver damage. An increase in the coefficient up to 2 units / l and above, subject to an increased content of albumin, indicates a myocardial infarction.
Normal ALT / AST levels in the body:
- Alalninaminotransferase: men - up to 45 units / l, women - up to 34 units / l;
- Aspartate aminotransferase: men - up to 41 U / L, women - up to 31 U / L.
Self-decoding analyzes
Often, after reading medical information, patients try to decode a blood test for an ALT level on their own. Having received the results in the laboratory, some people, seeing the deviation of indicators from normal values, independently diagnose serious diseases in themselves.
Doctors know that exceeding the ALT threshold is not always a sign of pathology. Results from different laboratories may differ from each other. It depends on the equipment, on the research methods, on the materials used in the analysis. Other factors can also affect the results, be it the patient's improper lifestyle, medication intake, emotional state, and others.
Only a doctor can correctly decipher the research results. He also prescribes drug treatment.
Today, doctors do not use ALT analysis as a means of accurate diagnostics. An excess of ALT values in a blood test indicates only the possibility of a disease. To make the final diagnosis, additional studies are used, specialists of a narrow profile are involved: urologists, cardiologists and others.
Normalizing ALT levels with folk remedies
After the examination, the patient with a high ALT level is prescribed medication. But for prevention, the doctor may recommend herbal medicine. Below are examples of using folk remedies to lower alanine aminotransferase levels.
- Milk thistle decoction. To prepare a teaspoon of chopped herbs, pour a glass of boiling water, wrap it up and let it brew for 20 minutes. Then the infusion is filtered. Take the broth in small sips, half an hour before meals, twice a day, for three weeks;
- Herbal collection. They mix immortelle, St. John's wort and celandine. The proportion of herbs is 2-2-1, respectively. The collection is poured with 1 liter of hot water, wrapped up and infused for 12 hours. Then you need to strain the infusion. Take half a glass 4 times a day for two weeks;
- Dandelion infusion. For cooking, take 200 grams of crushed dandelion flowers. Pour 100 ml of vodka. The tool is insisted during the day. Take 2 tablespoons three times a day for three weeks;
- A decoction of corn silk. To prepare the product, take dried crushed stigmas. Pour 200 ml of boiling water and leave for 15-20 minutes. Take the infusion twice a day in a glass. The course of treatment can be six months.
Important! Folk remedies are not a cure! They are used for the prevention of diseases and general strengthening of the body.
The level of development of modern medicine makes it possible to accurately diagnose most of the known diseases. One of the generally accepted research methods is a biochemical blood test. It contains many indicators, one of which is the level of alanine aminotransferase.
An excess of the normal ALT level indicates the possibility of developing serious diseases in the body. But only a doctor can accurately determine the disease. We strongly recommend not to engage in self-diagnosis and even more self-medication. If you experience alarming symptoms, go to the clinic immediately. They will conduct all the necessary examinations and help you cope with the problem.
Various blood counts play an important role in the diagnosis of diseases. Even by the results, one can judge the functional state of many human organs. To assess the health of the liver, the concentration of alanine aminotransferase in the blood is assessed. The ALT indicator, the rate of which is different in women and men, is a reliable diagnostic criterion.
An important function of the liver is to cleanse the blood from toxins. This function complements the immune system and protects the cells of the body from chemical damage. The fact is that food substrates after digestion processes are absorbed into the blood and lymph for transportation to all cells of the body.
At the very beginning of their journey, food components pass through the liver, where harmful substances are detected and neutralized. That is why liver cells synthesize a large number of various enzymes.
Liver function is not limited to detoxification. The cells of the organ also produce enzymes necessary for cellular metabolism. Alanine aminotransferase is one such enzyme. This substance is usually stored inside liver cells and released into the blood in small amounts. Various pathological processes leading to damage to organ cells can provoke an increase in blood concentration.
Measuring the concentration of ALT in the blood enables doctors to assess the state of liver cells and diagnose various pathologies.
This indicator is also important for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction and, since a small amount of ALT is contained in the cells of these organs.
ALT tests are often ordered in conjunction with other tests, including tests for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, etc. The ratio of these indicators allows you to clarify the diagnosis.
Why is this analysis prescribed?
An ALT blood test is usually done to determine the condition of the liver and diagnose kidney and heart disease.
The following symptoms may be the reason for the appointment of such an analysis:
- ... The symptom is characterized by yellowing of the skin, eyes and some mucous membranes.
- Darkening of the urine.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Pain in the right upper abdomen.
When the liver is damaged, the concentration of alanine aminotransferase in the blood usually increases. An ALT blood test can show the concentration of an enzyme in the bloodstream, but will not indicate the nature and severity of liver cell damage. The analysis also does not indicate the cause of the liver pathology, therefore, after assessing this parameter, other tests and diagnostic methods are prescribed.
Doctors rarely assess alanine aminotransferase concentrations without testing other enzymes, such as AST and bilirubin.
Comprehensive diagnostics and assessment of the ratio of enzymes makes it possible to make a preliminary diagnosis.
ALT analysis is also important in the following cases:
- Control of liver condition against the background of progressive diseases, such as kidney failure.
- Assessment of the need to prescribe a specific treatment regimen.
Thus, the concentration of ALT in the blood is an important non-specific indicator in the diagnosis.
Preparation, procedure and risks
An ALT blood test is no different from any other blood sample. Blood for research is obtained from the cubital vein. Stress and alcohol consumption should be avoided before the procedure.
Before the procedure, the doctor should be told about the following:
- Taking medications, including herbs and dietary supplements.
- Features of the diet.
- Identified allergic reactions.
- Pregnancy.
- Diagnosed chronic diseases of the blood, liver and digestive organs.
- Poisoning incidents.
Taking medications affects the condition of the liver, therefore, the result may be distorted. If necessary, the doctor may ask the patient not to take this or that medication several days before the procedure.To measure the concentration of alanine aminotransferase, a small blood volume is sufficient.
More information about blood tests for ALT and AST can be found in the video:
Stages of blood sampling:
- The healthcare professional uses an antiseptic to disinfect the puncture site.
- An elastic tourniquet is used to increase pressure in the veins of the forearm.
- An ulnar vein is punctured and the required amount of blood is taken.
- After a sufficient amount of blood has been drawn, the healthcare professional will remove the tourniquet and remove the needle from the vein. Immediately after this, the area of the puncture is again treated with an antiseptic and pressed with a cotton swab. To fix the tampon, a bandage is applied in the elbow bend area.
- A blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Blood sampling from a vein is a typical diagnostic procedure for whichare characterized by serious complications. However, the following unpleasant phenomena are possible:
- Unsuccessful puncture due to insufficient volume of veins. It is also possible to use other veins of the upper extremities.
- The appearance of a hematoma. This complication is usually associated with a through vein puncture or with insufficient pressure on the puncture site after the procedure. It is not recommended to bend the arm at the elbow after the procedure, as this method of pressing increases the likelihood of bruising.
- Prolonged bleeding in people with impaired blood coagulation. In addition, taking aspirin, warfarin, and other anticoagulants can also increase bleeding. Abnormalities or taking anticoagulants should be reported to a healthcare professional prior to the procedure.
- Infection of the puncture site.
The results of the analysis are sent to the attending physician within 7-10 days after the procedure.
Analysis decoding
The normal ALT value is only an approximate range and may vary from laboratory to laboratory. This or that value only clarifies other clinical data, including the value of other liver enzymes and symptoms of diseases. Thus, minor deviations do not always indicate a problem.
The normal ALT value also depends on the patient's gender and health status. For men, up to 45 units of ALT per liter of blood are taken as the norm. The norm for women is up to 31 units per liter of blood.
Pregnancy does not affect the range of acceptable ALT values, the norm in women is already underestimated. An increase in the concentration of alanine aminotransferase during this period indicates the same pathologies as in other categories of patients.
An increase in the concentration of ALT in the blood primarily indicates liver damage.
Typically, this result indicates the following conditions:
- ... The disease is characterized by inflammatory damage to liver cells.
- ... In this severe disease, liver cells are destroyed and scarring occurs.
- Liver tissue necrosis.
- Tumor process in the liver.
- Disruption of blood flow in the liver (ischemia).
- Hemochromatosis. This disorder is characterized by excessive accumulation of iron in liver cells.
- Mononucleosis is an infectious disease resulting from invasion.
- ... Inflammation can also affect liver health.
- Poisoning with lead or other toxin.
- Exposure to carbon tetrachloride.
- Taking medications, including statins, antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, aspirin, drugs, and barbiturates.
The normal value of the enzyme is quite variable, therefore, other analyzes are also used to clarify the state.
Detection of a very low concentration of alanine aminotransferase in the blood may indicate severe liver damage or vitamin B6 deficiency in the body.Thus, measuring the concentration of alanine aminotransferase in the blood is an important screening method for assessing the functional state of cells.
A blood test is an important diagnostic criterion, according to its results, the doctor can say a lot not only about the general condition of the patient, but also about the health of specific organs. In particular, biochemical analysis can tell about the liver if its AST and ALT parameters are carefully considered. Let's dwell on them in more detail.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
The substance is an enzyme that promotes the transport of amino acids within the human body. AST (synonyms AST, ASAT) is present in the cells of the whole organism, but most of all it is observed in the liver and heart, slightly less in muscle tissue, kidneys, spleen and pancreas. The function of the enzyme also includes participation in the production of bile, the production of necessary protein structures, the transformation of nutrients, and the breakdown of toxic compounds. The norm of the state of the blood provides for a minimum amount of the enzyme in the bloodstream; if the level changes, it can be assumed that there is a serious pathology. Changes in AST values are noted earlier than specific symptoms of diseases.
Increase in indicator
An increased level of AST is observed in a person if the following phenomena are present:
- Liver pathologies (from hepatitis to cirrhosis and cancer);
- Disorders in the work of the heart (heart attack, heart rhythm failure);
- Large vessel thrombosis;
- The appearance of areas of necrosis (gangrene);
- Injuries (mechanical damage to muscles), burns.
The reasons for the low increase in AST may indicate significant physical activity or the presence of a recent injection or oral use of a drug, vaccine, or vitamins.
Decrease in indicator
Not only an increased level of AST is of diagnostic value, but also its decrease. Liver ruptures are called the most common cause of the condition, but the value may fluctuate downward during pregnancy or a lack of vitamin B6, which is involved in the transport of aspartate.
Normal value
The norm of the AST level differs depending on the research methodology. The results obtained with different methods of determination cannot be compared with each other. Please note that the test system is indicated by the laboratory on the analysis form. This also means that each laboratory has its own reference values, which may differ from the standards adopted in other laboratories.
AU 680 result
For children under one month of age, the AST rate is 25–75 units per liter. In older patients (up to 14 years old), the average range is 15–60.
In adult men and women, the rate is different:
For men - 0-50.
For women - 0–45.
Cobas 8000 result
The AsAT indicator is also recalculated per one liter of blood and is measured in conventional units:
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
ALT (synonyms ALT, ALAT), like AST, is an enzyme, but alanine aminotransferase is responsible for the movement of the amino acid alanine from one cell to another. Thanks to the enzyme, the central nervous system receives energy for its work, the immune system is strengthened, and metabolic processes are normalized. The substance is involved in the formation of lymphocytes. Normally, ALT is present in the blood in small amounts. The highest concentration of the enzyme is observed in the tissues of the liver and heart, slightly less - in the kidneys, muscles, spleen, lungs and pancreas. A change in the ALT content in the blood is observed in serious diseases, but it can also be a variant of the normal state.
Increase in indicator
With a biochemical blood test, ALT can be increased as a result of the following pathologies:
- Damage to the liver and biliary tract (hepatitis, cirrhosis, cancer, obstruction);
- Intoxication (alcoholic, chemical);
- Diseases of the heart and blood vessels (ischemia, heart attack, myocarditis);
- Diseases of the blood;
- Injuries and burns.
ALT may increase after taking medications, eating fatty foods or fast food, intramuscular injections.
Decrease in indicator
In a biochemical blood test, a decrease in the ALT index may be observed, this indicates a lack of vitamin B6, which is involved in the transport of alanine, or severe liver pathologies: cirrhosis, necrosis, and others.
Normal value
Like AST, ALT in the blood is determined by several methods, the laboratory indicates it on the test result form. Studies carried out using different methods cannot be compared with each other.
AU 680 result
In children under one month of age, the ALT rate is 13–45 units per liter of blood.
In children over one month old and in adults, normal ALT values fluctuate depending on gender:
- Men - from 0 to 50 units;
- Women - from 0 to 35 units.
Cobas 8000 result
According to this test system, the value of the norm of the indicator depends on the age of the person and his gender:
All values are indicated in units per liter of blood.
When the study is scheduled
The doctor may order a biochemical test to study the level of AST and ALT enzymes if there are signs of liver damage or some factors that can affect its work.
Frequent symptoms of liver pathology:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting;
- The presence of a feeling of nausea;
- Pain in the abdomen;
- Light coloration of feces;
- Dark colored urine;
- A yellowish tint to the whites of the eyes or skin;
- Itching
- General weakness;
- Increased fatigue.
Risk factors for liver damage:
- Alcohol abuse;
- Hepatitis or previous jaundice;
- The presence of liver pathology in close relatives;
- Taking potentially toxic drugs (anabolic steroids; anti-inflammatory, anti-tuberculosis, antifungal medicines; antibiotics, etc.);
- Diabetes;
- Obesity.
An analysis of AST and ALT enzymes can be performed to assess the effectiveness of treatment (if the elevated level gradually decreases, a positive effect of drug therapy is diagnosed).
Diagnostic features
For diagnostic purposes, it is important not only the fact of changes in blood counts ASAT and ALT, but also the degree of their increase or decrease, as well as the ratio of the number of enzymes to each other. For example:
Myocardial infarction is evidenced by an increase in both indicators (AST and ALT) in the analysis by 1.5-5 times.
If the AST / ALT ratio is in the range of 0.55-0.65, one can assume viral hepatitis in the acute phase, exceeding the 0.83 mark indicates a severe course of the disease.
If the AST level is much higher than the ALT level (the AST / ALT ratio is much greater than 1), then alcoholic hepatitis, muscle damage or cirrhosis may be the cause of such changes.
To exclude an error, the doctor must also evaluate other blood parameters (in the case of liver pathology, this is bilirubaminotransferase dissociation). If there is an increased level of bilirubin against the background of a decrease in the level of the enzymes in question, then an acute form of liver failure or subhepatic jaundice is assumed.
Rules for taking a biochemical blood test
Failure to comply with the rules for preparing for the analysis can lead to knowingly false results, which will entail the need for additional examination and a long procedure for clarifying the diagnosis. Preparation includes several main points:
- The material is handed over on an empty stomach in the morning;
- Eliminate fatty, spicy foods, alcohol and fast food the day before blood donation;
- Do not smoke half an hour before the procedure;
- Eliminate physical and emotional stress the night before and in the morning before taking blood;
- You should not donate material immediately after radiography, fluorography, physiotherapy procedures, ultrasound or rectal examination;
- It is necessary to tell the doctor about all medications, vitamins, dietary supplements and vaccinations taken before the appointment of a biochemical study.
Diagnosis of diseases based on the results of a blood test is a complex process that requires the availability of appropriate knowledge, therefore, the interpretation of the results must be entrusted to qualified doctors.
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