Advice from Harvard Health Publishing: What is the most common reason for elevated liver enzymes?

Answered by Dr. Howard E. LeWine

M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA

We constantly release enzymes produced by our liver cells into the bloodstream. When liver cells are injured by any cause, the blood level of these proteins may rise. But injured liver cells do not mean that the person definitely has permanent liver disease. The liver can repair itself if the factor that caused the injury is corrected. Common causes of elevated liver enzymes include fatty liver disease, alcohol use, prescription and some over-the-counter medications, herbal and dietary supplements, and viral hepatitis.

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