Elevated ALT and AST Levels: Are They Indicators of Hepatitis?

Elevated levels of ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase), commonly referred to as transaminases, do not necessarily mean a person has hepatitis. While hepatitis is one of the possible causes of elevated transaminase levels, there are several other factors that can lead to an increase in these enzymes. These include physical exhaustion, alcohol consumption, the use of certain herbal remedies, and conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

To determine whether hepatitis is the cause, additional testing is essential. Alongside standard liver function tests, it's important to screen for viral hepatitis, including hepatitis A, B, C, and E. Specifically, testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody (HCV Ab) can help confirm or rule out these infections. A positive result for HBsAg typically indicates chronic hepatitis B, while a positive HCV antibody test suggests exposure to the hepatitis C virus.

Further diagnostic steps may include HBV DNA or HCV RNA quantitative testing. These tests help assess the viral load and determine whether antiviral treatment is necessary. In many cases, hepatitis C can now be cured with modern antiviral medications. However, hepatitis B remains incurable, although it can be effectively managed with antiviral drugs like entecavir or tenofovir, which help suppress viral replication.

If both ALT and AST levels are significantly elevated, liver-protecting medications may be recommended to reduce liver cell damage. In more severe cases, intravenous treatments might be necessary to support liver function and prevent further complications. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment options.