What is a potential cause of elevated transaminases such as ALT and AST?

Elevated transaminases, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), are significant laboratory markers often associated with liver function. The liver is primarily responsible for metabolizing these enzymes, and elevated levels typically indicate liver inflammation or damage. Conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver tumors can lead to an increase in these enzyme levels due to hepatocyte injury.

In contrast, other conditions like chronic dehydration, anemia, or heart failure may impact various bodily functions but do not directly cause significant elevations in transaminases. While heart failure can affect liver function over time through mechanisms like congestion, it is not a primary cause of elevated transaminases compared to direct liver pathology. Hence, liver disease stands out as the most relevant context for elevated ALT and AST levels.