I Would Be Interested To Hear Of Known Cases Of Elevated Ammonia Levels In Liver Disease

Posted on Thu, 5 May 2022

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 5 May 2022 Answered on

Tue, 7 Jan 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I'm currently being evaluated for hepatic dysfunction. Liver enzymes and ammonia are both elevated. I'm being referred for a liver biopsy. In the meantime, I'm trying to clear up some confusion.

My gastroenterologist stated that she has only seen elevated ammonia levels once the liver has reached cirrhosis stage. However, just two months ago, my liver enzymes were completely normal. Is it possible that I have cirrhosis but just two months ago, my blood results were normal? I know that the liver biopsy will tell me what I need to know but I'm worried and having trouble waiting. It just seems like if I was already nearing cirrhosis levels, my enzymes would have been elevated two months ago?

I'd be interested to hear of known cases of elevated ammonia levels in liver disease that has not reached the point of cirrhosis.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Answer given below

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you.
It is not just cirrhosis, even in acute liver failure serum ammonia can be elevated.
Acute liver failure is defined as loss of liver function that occurs rapidly, in days or weeks, usually in a person who has no preexisting liver disease.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj