Question

Case Study #27 100 Case Studies in Pathophysiology (BRUYERE) Patient Case Question 9. Why might tests for ALT and AST be appropriate for a diagnosis of Peptic Ulcer Disease?

Answer 1

Some of the studies proved that enzymes like AST and ALT are released to blood and saliva at the time of cell destruction. Peptic ulcers are open craters or sores that develop in the inner lining of the stomach or the duodenum. A coating of mucus and other chemicals normally shields the stomach and duodenum from digesting themselves. If the protective mechanisms are disrupted, strong digestive acids can erode into the lining of these organs and cause peptic ulcers. As a result host response is activated and enzymes like AST and ALT are released to blood and saliva by the inflammatory cells, which results in elevated serum ALT and AST levels.   

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