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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
elevated ast and alt
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
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.
elevated ast and alt
by shellyc, Sep 18, 2007 02:46PM
22 yo male, healthy, recent ast 47 and alt 108 with total bili 1.2, repeated within a week and the same levels. no meds, alcohol, symptoms in the past or now. no health problems. hepatitis panel negative. grandfather and uncle with probable anti-tripsin deficiency, but not confirmed. both died from pulmonary fibrosis. would you wait a few months and repeat levels since he is so healthy. I am terrified of the health insurance ramifications if he has a bunch of testing done is he should just wait.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Sep 19, 2007 07:16AM
, Sep 19, 2007 07:16AM
Obtaining further testing is recommended. I would consider an abdominal ultrasound to exclude anatomical liver or gallbladder abnormalities.
Blood tests to check the ferritin levels as well as for hepatitis can be considered as well.
I agree with serial monitoring of the liver enzymes. If the enzymes continue to rise, a liver biopsy can be considered.
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_
Blood tests to check the ferritin levels as well as for hepatitis can be considered as well.
I agree with serial monitoring of the liver enzymes. If the enzymes continue to rise, a liver biopsy can be considered.
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_
