Autoimmune hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by an autoimmune disorder. One of the main indicators of autoimmune hepatitis is an elevated level of alanine transaminase (ALT) in the blood. ALT is an enzyme that helps to break down proteins and is found in high concentrations in the liver.
A normal range of ALT in the blood is usually between 10 and 40 units per liter (U/L). When a person is diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, the level of ALT in their blood is usually significantly higher than this normal range. A diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis is usually made when the ALT level is more than 10 times higher than the normal range. For example, if the normal range of ALT in the blood is 10 to 40 U/L, then a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis would be made if the ALT level was more than 400 U/L.
In addition to the elevated ALT levels, other indicators of autoimmune hepatitis include the presence of autoantibodies in the blood, elevated levels of immunoglobulin G, and an increased white blood cell count. Treatment for autoimmune hepatitis usually includes lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and regular exercise, as well as medications to suppress the immune system.
In conclusion, the level of ALT in the blood is a major indicator of autoimmune hepatitis. A diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis is usually made when the ALT level is more than 10 times higher than the normal range, which is usually between 10 and 40 U/L. Other indicators of autoimmune hepatitis include the presence of autoantibodies in the blood, elevated levels of immunoglobulin G, and an increased white blood cell count.