ast/alt

[Liver test]

My AST and ALT were elevated AST 69 Range was 16-40
                             ALT 232 Range was 8-54
Both came back to normal within a month. Doctor says this
was due to heavy drinking which is true. But Is it normal
for them to come back to normal like that. If I had a
liver disease would they stay elevated.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Heavy transient alcohol use can raise the liver enzymes, although the AST would be elevated more than the ALT.  The levels going down after a period of abstinence makes it more likely that alcohol was responsible for the rise in enzymes.

Further testing with a liver ultrasound can be considered for further evaluation.

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