Liver enzymes, or proteins, have many roles in the body. In general, they regulate chemical reactions that help keep you healthy. For example, they influence how quickly you make the substances that help you fight infection or your blood to clot. They also assist your body in breaking down food and toxins.
A doctor may discover that you have elevated liver enzymes if they order a liver function test. The tests can monitor liver enzymes such as:
- alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
- alanine transaminase (ALT)
- aspartate transaminase (AST)
- gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)
The doctor may order additional tests to identify the cause of elevated liver enzymes. They can also recommend treatments or steps to take to reduce high liver enzymes. This might include medications and lifestyle changes.
Causes of elevated liver enzymes
There are many possible causes behind elevated liver enzyme levels. These include:
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-related liver disease
The most common causes of elevated liver enzymes are nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD).
The conditions refer to too much fat buildup in your liver. Over time, they can lead to liver damage and even scarring of the liver (cirrhosis).
Neither NAFLD nor ARLD may cause any symptoms until the conditions advance. If a doctor detects elevated liver enzymes, they may order additional tests to check for signs of liver disease.
Dietary supplements and vitamins
Your liver filters everything you consume. This includes dietary supplements and vitamins. Over-the-counter supplements may contribute to or cause elevated liver enzymes.
Supplements are not always regulated as prescription medications are. High dose vitamins or certain herbs can cause harm. It is best to inform your doctor about any dietary supplements or vitamins that you are taking.
Certain medications
Some medications can cause elevated liver enzymes. These include statins that help lower cholesterol, such as atorvastatin (Lipitor) and simvastatin (Zocor).
It may not be necessary for a person with existing liver dysfunction to avoid taking statins. Your doctor can advise on whether they recommend statins.
Other medications can cause liver damage that may affect your enzyme levels. These can include:
- acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- antibiotics
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen in rare cases
- anticonvulsants or antiepileptic medications
It is best to contact a doctor for advice if you have concerns about the potential side effects of medications you are currently taking.
Hepatitis
Elevated liver enzymes may be due to hepatitis.
Hepatitis refers to an inflamed liver. It most often happens as a result of a virus. The most common types of viral hepatitis in the United States are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
Some people with hepatitis do not have any symptoms. It is best to contact a doctor to assess your risk and whether you should receive regular screening for hepatitis.
Effective vaccines are available to help prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B. Treatments can help manage hepatitis.
Bone disorders
Your bones also produce the enzyme ALP. If you break a bone, it can raise the ALP enzyme levels in your blood.
Other bone disorders, such as Paget disease of bone, can also raise your ALP levels.
