The liver performs dozens of functions that are important to metabolism. Liver enzymes make many of these processes possible. There are literally thousands of enzymes in the human liver. But when some of these enzymes accumulate at elevated levels, problems can result.

 

Elevated liver enzymes usually mean the liver isn't functioning properly and some liver cells are being damaged.

Elevated enzymes are a clue that some form of liver disorder has developed, even if no symptoms have presented themselves. If you have elevated liver enzymes, you'll usually need specific tests to determine exactly what's wrong. These tests could be an MRI, biopsy, ultrasound, CT scan, and liver blood tests.

Causes of elevated liver enzymes

Elevated liver enzymes may be caused by any of the following, or a combination

• Autoimmune disorders of the liver and bile ducts, such as autoimmune hepatitis
• Diabetes
• Elevated triglycerides
• Excessive consumption of alcohol
• Excessive use of certain herbal supplements, such as kava, comfrey, pennyroyal and skullcap
• Infections such as viral hepatitis and mononucleosis
• Medications, including certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cholesterol-lowering medications, antibiotics and anti-seizure medications
• Metabolic liver disease, such as hemochromatosis and Wilson's disease
• Obesity
• Tumors of the liver or bile ducts