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What Causes Elevated Liver Enzymes In Blood?
my three year old son had a blood test and the results were that his liver enzymes were high. His dr made him have another blood test 3 weeks later and the results were that his liver enzymes were even a little higher. What could cause this and should I be worried?
Mon, 1 May 2023
Hi,
Elevated liver enzymes in a child can indicate liver damage or inflammation. There are many possible causes for this, including:
- Viral infections: Hepatitis A, B, and C are viral infections that can cause inflammation of the liver and elevated liver enzymes.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as acetaminophen, antibiotics, and anticonvulsants, can cause liver damage and elevated liver enzymes in some children.
Fatty liver disease occurs when fat accumulates in the liver, causing inflammation and damage. This can happen in children who are overweight or obese.
- Autoimmune disorders: In some cases, the immune system may attack the liver, causing inflammation and elevated liver enzymes.
- Inherited liver diseases: Certain genetic conditions can cause liver damage and elevated liver enzymes, such as Wilson's disease or alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
It's important to follow up with your child's doctor to determine the cause of the elevated liver enzymes and develop a treatment plan if necessary. Depending on the underlying cause, additional testing or referral to a specialist may be necessary. In some cases, diet, medications, or lifestyle changes may be recommended.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
Elevated liver enzymes in a child can indicate liver damage or inflammation. There are many possible causes for this, including:
- Viral infections: Hepatitis A, B, and C are viral infections that can cause inflammation of the liver and elevated liver enzymes.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as acetaminophen, antibiotics, and anticonvulsants, can cause liver damage and elevated liver enzymes in some children.
Fatty liver disease occurs when fat accumulates in the liver, causing inflammation and damage. This can happen in children who are overweight or obese.
- Autoimmune disorders: In some cases, the immune system may attack the liver, causing inflammation and elevated liver enzymes.
- Inherited liver diseases: Certain genetic conditions can cause liver damage and elevated liver enzymes, such as Wilson's disease or alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
It's important to follow up with your child's doctor to determine the cause of the elevated liver enzymes and develop a treatment plan if necessary. Depending on the underlying cause, additional testing or referral to a specialist may be necessary. In some cases, diet, medications, or lifestyle changes may be recommended.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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