ast/alt ratio

40 yr old Female with the following test results:
In 1998 ratio of ast/alt was 1:1 (ast 18 alt 17)

06/05          11/05           05/06
ast 19         ast 21          ast 20
alt  9         alt 12          alt 13
albumin 4.6    albumin4.7      albumin 4.6
mcv 96         mcv94           mcv90
plt 167        plt 192         plt 172
blrb .9        blrb .6         blrb .6
alk ph 46      alk ph 40
               ggt 12
               ldh 122

all other blood work is normal.  ct scan with contrast for liver was normal.  history of moderate to heavy drinking for 10 years.  abstinenece from alcohol prior to test in 05/06.  i am concerned about the ast/alt ratio.  i read that this could mean i have alcohol liver disease.  
is this ratio important when enzymes are in the normal range?
is ct scan with contrast a good image of liver?
could these test results mean alcohol liver disease?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

An AST/ALT ratio of about 2:1 is suggestive of liver disease.  However, with both these values being within the normal range, this is an unlikely possibility.

A CT scan would rule out many of the major anatomical abnormalities with the liver.  An ultrasound or MRI can also be considered if there are suspicious areas.  

A negative CT scan and normal LFTs would make alcoholic liver disease unlikely.

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.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[muckman_1999]

What are your physical symptoms that are causing you to get these tests in the first place?

[Linda J]

I just went through some liver testing and your numbers look ok to me. Is there some reason you have had so many LFT tests done?

Linda J