High AST/ALT Levels...what could they mean? - Liver & Pancreas Disorders Message Board

laoks9999 · 09-07-2008, 06:02 PM

Hi,

I have been feeling ill for the past 2 weeks now with malaise, slightly swollen glands, and no appetite at all. My blood test came back normal with the exception of elevated AST and ALT levels, 79 and `184 respectively. I tested negative for mono. My doctor is going to send me for further blood tests including a test for hep.

I feel weak and have a very diminished appetite and believe I have slightly swollen glands. I am 34 yrs old, male, and maybe 30lbs overweight. I don't drink but do have a history of tobacco use. Diet is nothing to write home about but not out of control.

Anyway, I am of course worried and was curious if anyone else have ever had a situation like mine and curious what the level of my liver enzymes mean. I am most worried about some type of metastatic cancer but don't know if my AST/ALT levels indicate this. Also curious what my symptoms mean. Are these consistent with hepatitis?

I am going for the blood test tomorrow but would like to hear from anyone with any advice.

Thanks

leea1206 · 09-09-2008, 09:51 PM

An elevated ALT may suggest liver cell inflammation and/or liver cell death, thus the need to check for hep. The normal range for ALT is 10-55 in males.
ALT is the most sensitive marker for liver cell damage.

Some of your symptoms may relate to liver problems. - ie: malaise and poor appetite.
But, obviously you need furthur testing. Some medications can cause an elevated ALT, as well.

laoks9999 · 09-09-2008, 10:08 PM

Thanks for your response Leea1206, I appreciate it. I went for a hepatitis profile today so will find out in a few days. I am worried of course.

You mentioned that symptoms of liver problems are malaise and loss of appetite. I have seen these symptoms listed in a laundry list of symptoms for liver disease and hepatitis. Would you say that malaise and loss of appetite are 2 of the more common symptoms of liver problems? Can liver problems also affect the lymph nodes? I am having some problems with these as well.

Thanks for your response again.