Elevated liver enzymes indicate damage or abnormal impact on liver cells. However, not all cases of elevated liver enzymes are due to hepatitis.

A liver enzyme test is a blood test that measures the concentration of enzymes present in liver cells, which are released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged. Common indicators include alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and GGT. Among these, ALT and AST are the two most common enzymes reflecting liver cell damage. In adults, the normal upper limit for ALT and AST typically ranges from 35-40 U/L, though this can vary by laboratory.

Your test results, with ALT at 78 U/L and AST at 52 U/L, are above the normal limits, indicating a mild elevation in liver enzymes. Most instances of liver enzyme increases that are less than 5 times the normal limit do not constitute an emergency. Nevertheless, patients require monitoring and an evaluation of the underlying cause to prevent overlooking chronic liver diseases.

Currently, fatty liver disease linked to metabolic disorders is a common cause of persistent mild liver enzyme elevation. Other factors contributing to this condition include viral hepatitis B or C, alcohol consumption, inappropriate use of medications and dietary supplements, obesity, and diabetes. In some cases, liver enzymes may temporarily rise after strenuous physical activity, prolonged sleep deprivation, or due to non-liver conditions such as muscle disease, thyroid disorders, or hemolysis.

Blood tests help assess liver enzyme levels. Illustration: *Tam Anh General Hospital*.

Upon detecting elevated liver enzymes, doctors typically assess a patient's history of alcohol consumption, medication use, weight, waist circumference, and underlying metabolic conditions. They also order necessary tests to investigate and pinpoint the cause.

You should avoid self-medicating with "liver-cooling" or "liver-detoxifying" products without a clear diagnosis, as some of these can exacerbate liver damage. Simultaneously, it is important to limit alcohol, ensure sufficient sleep, manage weight, reduce fried foods and sugary drinks, and maintain regular physical activity. If liver enzyme elevation persists, increases significantly, or if symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, right upper quadrant pain, or dark urine appear, you should seek medical attention promptly.

Regular health check-ups are crucial for early detection of liver enzyme abnormalities and potential hepatobiliary diseases. Correct treatment of the underlying cause supports liver recovery, reducing the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer in the long term.

Master of Science, Doctor Dinh Thi Huong

Department of Gastroenterology - Hepatobiliary - Pancreatic

Tam Anh General Hospital