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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is A Liver Biopsy Necessary For Elevated ALT And AST Levels?

my doctor is recommending a liver biopsy because of elevated alt and ast to help diagnose the elevation. there is also frequent constant pain in the abdominal area and upperchest which is only relieved by pain meds. Not sure if the pain is due to the elevation. the levels are in the 200-300 range. what s your suggestion. yes, mri, ct and lab work have been done and the pain will not go away please help
posted on Wed, 8 Feb 2017
Twitter Thu, 6 Dec 2018 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 12 Dec 2018 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Elevated levels of liver enzymes ALT and AST between 200 to 300 IU/L is extremely high and it indicates liver dysfunction. Elevated levels of enzymes will not suggest what could be the underlying cause. It needs to be ascertained by imaging studies or by liver biopsy.

Histopathological examination of the biopsy specimen would determine what might be the underlying cause. Kindly get the liver biopsy done as suggested by your doctor and do the necessary follow-up as advised.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Ashakiran S,
General & Family Physician
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Is A Liver Biopsy Necessary For Elevated ALT And AST Levels?

Hi, Elevated levels of liver enzymes ALT and AST between 200 to 300 IU/L is extremely high and it indicates liver dysfunction. Elevated levels of enzymes will not suggest what could be the underlying cause. It needs to be ascertained by imaging studies or by liver biopsy. Histopathological examination of the biopsy specimen would determine what might be the underlying cause. Kindly get the liver biopsy done as suggested by your doctor and do the necessary follow-up as advised. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Ashakiran S, General & Family Physician