Is ALT 87 a Cause for Concern?

An ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) level of 87 U/L is considered mildly elevated and generally not a serious issue. The normal range for ALT is typically between 0 and 40 U/L. A slight increase can be caused by either temporary, non-serious factors or more persistent health conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, or bile duct issues. Further evaluation is needed to determine the underlying cause.

Understanding the Causes Behind Mild ALT Elevation

ALT levels can rise temporarily due to various non-medical reasons. If a person has recently engaged in intense physical activity, stayed up late, consumed excessive alcohol, or overeaten, these lifestyle factors may lead to a short-term increase in ALT levels. In such cases, no specific treatment is required. Simply resting and avoiding harmful behaviors for a few days can often bring the levels back to normal.

Common Medical Conditions Linked to Elevated ALT

1. Fatty Liver Disease: This condition is often associated with obesity, high cholesterol, or regular alcohol consumption. When fat accumulates in the liver over time, it can impair liver function and elevate ALT levels. An ultrasound scan can help diagnose fatty liver and assess its severity. Left untreated, it can progress to more serious liver damage.

2. Chronic Hepatitis: Long-term viral hepatitis, such as hepatitis B or C, can cause ongoing liver inflammation and damage. This often leads to fluctuating ALT levels. If chronic hepatitis is diagnosed, antiviral medications like entecavir or lamivudine may be prescribed, along with liver-protective supplements such as compound glycyrrhizin tablets or herbal remedies under medical supervision.

3. Bile Duct Stones: Obstruction caused by gallstones in the bile duct can lead to bile buildup, liver damage, and elevated ALT. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, jaundice, and fever. This condition is more serious and requires prompt diagnosis through imaging tests like an abdominal ultrasound or MRI. Treatment may involve medication or surgery depending on the severity.

Other Possible Causes of ALT Elevation

ALT levels may also rise due to drug-induced liver injury, cirrhosis, liver cancer, or other bile duct diseases such as cholangiocarcinoma. In rare cases, kidney-related conditions like pyelonephritis or acute renal failure can indirectly affect liver enzyme levels by disrupting overall body function.

If ALT remains elevated, it's important to visit a healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment. Identifying the root cause—whether it's lifestyle-related, viral, or structural—is key to effective treatment. Managing conditions like fatty liver through diet and exercise, treating hepatitis with antiviral therapy, or addressing bile duct issues through medical intervention can help restore normal ALT levels.

Preventive Measures to Maintain Liver Health

To support liver function and prevent ALT spikes, individuals should avoid excessive alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and avoid unnecessary medications. Getting enough sleep and managing stress are also important lifestyle habits that contribute to long-term liver wellness.