What condition is characterized by elevated liver enzymes?

Elevated liver enzymes are a clear indication of liver disease or injury because these enzymes are typically released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged or inflamed. The most commonly measured liver enzymes include alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). When conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or liver cancer occur, they cause liver cell damage, leading to the release of these enzymes into the bloodstream, which is detected through laboratory testing. This connection makes elevated liver enzymes a significant biomarker for diagnosing and monitoring liver health and related conditions.

In contrast, while conditions like heart failure, diabetes mellitus, and kidney failure may affect various organ systems and can influence liver function indirectly or through secondary complications, they do not typically present with elevated liver enzymes specifically related to direct liver injury or disease.