HomeAnswersMedical GastroenterologyaltMy son has elevated ALT and serum ferritin levels. Please help.

What causes high ALT and serum ferritin along with digestive issues in a 21-year-old male?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Albana Greca

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At December 17, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 11, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My 21-year-old son has elevated ALT (125 U/L) and elevated serum ferritin (665 micrograms/L). These levels may be higher now, as they were elevated but significantly lower three months ago. He also has slightly elevated creatinine and albumin. His urine is clear, but I am advised that his kidney function, although within acceptable limits, is poor for his age. He has looked and felt off-color for almost six months now. Sometimes grey and sometimes yellow, although his bilirubin and GGT are expected, and his eyes are not yellow. He suffers from intermittent nausea, bloating, belching and appetite loss, and his tummy looks swollen. He does not have hemochromatosis because his transferrin saturation is fine. He is tall and very lean. Blood tests, urine tests, and ultrasound of the liver, kidneys, and abdomen are all clear. Anti-mitochondrial antibodies are negative. Anti-LKM antibodies, anti-smooth muscle antibodies, and anti-parietal cell antibodies are negative. C-reactive protein is fine, and I have been told he does not have hepatitis A, B, or C. I am very anxious to obtain a diagnosis for him, as he no longer leaves the house due to his symptoms, and I am worried that whatever it is that he has is progressing.

Answered by Dr. Albana Greca

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I should rule out alcohol use or the use of any other drugs. If nothing, then you should get further diagnostic tests to determine the correct diagnosis. Unfortunately, we should think over all possible alternatives until we reach the final diagnosis. Then, try to find a way to persuade him and make him understand his current health situation and the best methods to find the definitive treatment.

Indeed he requires further tests and and has to start the treatment to reduce high ALT (alanine transaminase) along with healthy changes in diet and lifestyle habits.

Hope this helps.

Thanks and take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Albana Greca
Dr. Albana Greca

General Practitioner

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