Could Elevated Liver Enzymes Mean Nothing?

James H. Sterling
James H. Sterling
• • 6 min read

Diagnostic Testing If Elevated Abnormal Liver Enzymes Are Present, It Could Indicate Liver Damage, as These Enzymes Are Normally Only Found Within the Liver...

Could Elevated Liver Enzymes Mean Nothing?

Diagnostic Testing
If elevated abnormal liver enzymes are present, it could indicate liver damage, as these enzymes are normally only found within the liver. In most cases, liver enzyme levels are only mildly or temporarily elevated and don't signal a serious liver problem.

Can liver enzymes be elevated for no reason?

Elevated liver enzymes might be discovered during routine blood testing. In most cases, liver enzyme levels are only mildly and temporarily elevated. Most of the time, elevated liver enzymes don't signal a chronic, serious liver problem.

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What can cause a sudden increase in liver enzymes?

More common causes of elevated liver enzymes include:
  • Over-the-counter pain medications, particularly acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
  • Certain prescription medications, including statin drugs used to control cholesterol.
  • Drinking alcohol.
  • Heart failure.
  • Hepatitis A.
  • Hepatitis B.
  • Hepatitis C.
  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist
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James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.