What two lab values are typically evaluated for a diagnosis of hepatitis?

In evaluating for a diagnosis of hepatitis, measuring the levels of AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is crucial. AST and ALT are transaminases that are predominantly found in the liver, and their levels rise significantly in response to liver injury or inflammation, which is a hallmark of hepatitis. Typically, ALT levels are more elevated than AST levels in cases of viral hepatitis, although elevated levels of both can indicate liver damage from various causes, such as alcohol, viruses, or toxins.

While other lab values play important roles in assessing liver function and the overall health of the patient, they do not specifically indicate liver inflammation or damage as directly as AST and ALT do. Bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase are important in evaluating for cholestasis or biliary obstruction. Albumin and INR assess the synthetic function of the liver, while platelet and white blood cell counts can give insights into chronic liver disease or other conditions but do not specifically indicate hepatitis. Thus, the examination of AST and ALT is fundamental in making the initial diagnosis of hepatitis.