ALT Hepatocellular Specific — FRCA Primary MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyPhysiology - Gastrointestinal & HepaticALT Hepatocellular SpecificFRCA Primary

Regarding hepatic function tests which enzyme is most specific for hepatocellular damage?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

ALT is more specific to the liver than AST (which is also found in heart / muscle / brain / kidneys). Marked ALT elevation (>10× normal) suggests acute hepatocellular damage (viral hepatitis / drug toxicity / ischaemic hepatitis). ALP and GGT are elevated in cholestatic/obstructive disease. LDH is non-specific (found in many tissues).

Reference: Power Kam 2018 Principles of Physiology for the Anaesthetist