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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Ferritin levels and Liver Function Tests
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Ferritin levels and Liver Function Tests
by Ridd, Aug 11, 2003 12:00AM
I am a 44 yr old male.
Following fibrulation treatment for tachychardia 4 months ago I had a blood test for cholesterol and my family doctor also did some liver function tests.
My cholesterol was great at 2.8. I had a slightly elevated ferririn level and it was recommended that I have another test which I have just had. They tested for hepatitis,and many other tests. The results were all good except for three areas, namely my ferritin level was 393, my GGT was 137 and my ALT was 69. This is quite a deterioration from my last tests.
I have just had another blood test to check for the haemachromatosis gene as my father died from severe liver failure when 75.
I enjoy the odd beer and glass of wine in moderation and am an active multisport competitor so I reasonably fit.
I would be interested in your thoughts on my ferritin levels and GGT/ALT levels and what action or strategy I should adopt. My long term doctor has sold his practice and I seem to only get to talk to a nurse in the new practice. Should I get a scan?
I look forward to receiving your guidance.
Thanks
Following fibrulation treatment for tachychardia 4 months ago I had a blood test for cholesterol and my family doctor also did some liver function tests.
My cholesterol was great at 2.8. I had a slightly elevated ferririn level and it was recommended that I have another test which I have just had. They tested for hepatitis,and many other tests. The results were all good except for three areas, namely my ferritin level was 393, my GGT was 137 and my ALT was 69. This is quite a deterioration from my last tests.
I have just had another blood test to check for the haemachromatosis gene as my father died from severe liver failure when 75.
I enjoy the odd beer and glass of wine in moderation and am an active multisport competitor so I reasonably fit.
I would be interested in your thoughts on my ferritin levels and GGT/ALT levels and what action or strategy I should adopt. My long term doctor has sold his practice and I seem to only get to talk to a nurse in the new practice. Should I get a scan?
I look forward to receiving your guidance.
Thanks
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Aug 11, 2003 12:00AM
, Aug 11, 2003 12:00AM
To suspect hemochromatosis, iron studies as well as binding capacitiy should be performed. A ratio greater than 45 percent is suspicious for an iron overload syndrome. A ferritin by itself is not specific since there are many things that can raise a ferritin.
However, you have already received a test for the hemochromatosis gene and I would wait for that result.
Regarding the elevation in GGT/ALT - Elevated levels of serum GGT have been reported in a wide variety of clinical conditions, including pancreatic disease, myocardial infarction, renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and alcoholism.
However, alcohol can also cause an elevation in these levels. An ultrasound and repeating the liver tests are abstaining from alcohol would be reasonable first steps. I would also consider a screen for hepatitis and, if taking any medications, I would make sure none of them have any hepatotoxic effects.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
However, you have already received a test for the hemochromatosis gene and I would wait for that result.
Regarding the elevation in GGT/ALT - Elevated levels of serum GGT have been reported in a wide variety of clinical conditions, including pancreatic disease, myocardial infarction, renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and alcoholism.
However, alcohol can also cause an elevation in these levels. An ultrasound and repeating the liver tests are abstaining from alcohol would be reasonable first steps. I would also consider a screen for hepatitis and, if taking any medications, I would make sure none of them have any hepatotoxic effects.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
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