Numerous factors can cause a sudden elevation in liver enzymes. According to MayoClinic.com, elevated liver enzymes -- usually alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase -- may be detected during liver function tests. In most individuals, liver enzyme levels are mildly and temporarily elevated. In some cases, however, elevated liver enzymes may signal a serious underlying health problem that requires medical attention and intervention. Lifestyle factors and certain medical conditions can cause a sudden elevation in liver enzyme levels.
Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse can cause a sudden elevation in liver enzyme levels. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the liver is among the largest and most complex organs in the body. The liver stores energy and nutrients, produces proteins and enzymes, helps ward off disease and metabolizes harmful toxins such as alcohol. A person who drinks excessive amounts of alcohol may develop alcoholic liver disease, or ALD. ALD includes three distinct conditions: fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis. Heavy drinking for a period of even just several days can cause changes in liver function. ALD is usually diagnosed by laboratory tests of three liver enzymes: GGT, AST and ALT. Of these three enzymes, states the NIAAA, increased GGT is the best indicator of excessive alcohol consumption; however, certain drugs or medications may also increase GGT.
Gallstone-Associated Pancreatitis
Gallstone-associated pancreatitis can cause a sudden increase in liver enzyme levels. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center website elevated levels of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase, or ALT, are extremely specific in identifying gallstone-associated pancreatitis. The UMMC states that it is sometimes difficult to differentiate between pancreatitis and acute cholecystitis. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, whereas acute cholecystitis is a sudden inflammation of the gallbladder. Approximately 40 percent of pancreatitis cases involve gallstones -- hard, pebble-like masses that form in the gallbladder. Certain individuals have a greater risk of developing gallstone-associated pancreatitis including older Caucasian and Hispanic women and the obese. In most cases, imaging techniques, such as ultrasound and computed tomography, or CT, scans, are helpful in confirming a diagnosis of this gallstone-associated pancreatitis.
Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure is a condition that can cause suddenly elevated liver enzymes. According to the MedlinePlus, congestive heart failure is a condition in which a person's heart can no longer pump sufficient amounts of oxygen-rich blood to his tissues and organs. Although congestive heart failure is often a chronic, long-term condition, it can sometimes manifest suddenly. Numerous conditions can cause congestive heart failure including congenital heart disease, heart attack, heart valve disease, abnormal heart rhythms, emphysema, severe anemia, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Common signs and symptoms associated with congestive heart failure include increased liver enzymes, shortness of breath during physical activity, cough, feet and ankle swelling, abdominal swelling, weight gain, irregular pulse, heart palpitations, sleeping problems, loss of appetite and fatigue.
