slightly elevated ALT

I'm 37 years old. I had an insurance exam in 04/2005.  My GGT was elevated - 83 u/l. (ALT 30 u/l and AST 12 u/l).  I just had a follow up liver panel done two days ago.  My GGT and AST were within normal limits but my ALT was slightly elevated - two points high. I rarely drink alcohol - about a handful of drinks a year. I take thyroid meds.  My doctor ordered a hepatitis blood panel and an ultrasound.

What would cause me to have an elevated GGT and then 6 months later have an elevated ALT? Could these be isolated incidents? Do you think the hep tests and ultrasound are warranted at this point in time?

Thanks for your help.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It is possible that the isolated GGT and ALT are isolated incidents.

Also note that an ALT only 2 points higher than the normal range is within the range of lab error.  

A hepatitis screen and ultrasound is a reasonable initial workup.  If negative, this can rule out most of the more severe diseases.    If this is the case, the enzymes can be monitored on a period basis to ensure that they are not continuing the rise.  

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com

[DRAMC]

I just had a physical done at work and the results of my liver enzyme levels are: alt 92.0 U/L and Ast 47.0 U/L.  I have been dealing with my liver enzymes rising and lowering to normal for years now.  I have been hospitalized twice for it.  Once overnight and then for 5 days.  It was 6 times higher than normal on that stay. (I felt severe pain in my back and chest area) And I still don't know what causes it!  I had a procedure (I forgot the name) in which the Dr. saw I had no stones blocking but he says I may have passed one when he snipped.  After the procedure, my enzymes slowly returned to normal.  I had a health insurance test scheduled the day after my release and I failed it.  I passed it then a few days later.  

I don't want to keep wasting time going to the doctor.