Just found out my 17 year old daughter has elevated AST levels

[redfehu]

After what we thought were a routine series of blood tests for an acne treatment, the dermotologist told us that her AST level was "alarmingly" high.  From what I understand normal levels are 31 or less.  Her results came back at 451!  I have an appointment with the family doctor on Monday but am tempted to take her into a clinic or emergency immediately.  Am I over-reacting?

[seaweed1]

my levels were 450 when I first found out about the elevated levels...had just finished taking drugs for sinus infection then and thought levels would drop when done ....not true ...they have remained high [dropping to 310 ]this last year and after lots of test I am no further along in knowing why....but I have no symptoms of ill health....Doctors say come back if any show up...it's not a worry...hope they are right
Seaweed1

[redfehu]

Thanks for answering.  All the other screens came back perfectly normal.  The derm. was running a number of tests before he prescribed Acutaine, she had been taking Minocycline for about 6 months and it wasn't helping tested hormone levels, etc.  Up until now she's been perfectly healthy, no jaundice, pain, bloating. She doesn't take asprin or any other medications.  She's a fanatic non-smoker and, being the offspring of an alcoholic father, detests alcohol of any kind, though she did admit she had experimented with alcohol once and didn't see the appeal.  She's even distanced herself from friends who smoke drugs.

That said (and Sir Osis, you don't sound like a health food wacko), she is a typical teen and as far as I'm concerned eats far to much fast and fried food. She does however, drink fresh juice (low acid cranberry, pomegrante, etc.), plenty of water and antioxident high fruits and veg.

I'm at a loss...I guess I'll just have to wait until we get in to see the doctor.  I'll let you know how it turns out.

Thank you all once again.

[Sir_Osis]

Does she take "acutaine" (spelling) I seem to recall it being hepatotoxic - look at the side effects list if she does - it could explain the problem - and then you can weight the risk vs benefit. At the risk of sounding like a health food wacko (which I assuredly am not) I have seen acne clear up with cutting out most fried and fast food - and drinking lots of fresh juice (not canned or bottled) and lots of water..

[Sir_Osis]

Like Mary's said, is she taking any meds? excessive tylenol? around any industrial sovents methy tetrachloride? metyl ethyl ketones? There are several underlying potential causes that get bounced about here on this board.

How is she feeling? If she appears yellow, has increased pain, profound fatigue, get to doc.

[Marys1358]

I'm so sorry to hear about your daughter.Can I ask what your other results were for the LIPID PANEL.Not that I know but some else may have some advice for you.I'm kind of in the same situation of not knowing it can drive you nuts but hang in there Monday will be here before you know it.Does your daughter take and medication?

Well just wanted to let you know we are reading your post but I just don't have any information for you but please let me know what the Dr. says Please.

Good Luck,
Mary