CEA Nursing Practice Exam

What is a common lab finding in patients with autoimmune hepatitis?

1. Elevated AST and ALT

2. Decreased bilirubin

3. Normal alkaline phosphatase

4. Elevated albumin

The correct answer is: Elevated AST and ALT

In autoimmune hepatitis, a hallmark finding in laboratory tests is the elevation of liver enzymes, specifically aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). These enzymes are released into the bloodstream when there is liver inflammation or damage, which is characteristic of autoimmune hepatitis. Patients typically present with significantly elevated levels of AST and ALT, often exceeding three times the upper limit of normal values, reflecting the ongoing hepatic inflammation. The other choices do not align with the common lab findings seen in autoimmune hepatitis. Decreased bilirubin is not typically observed; in fact, bilirubin levels may be normal or slightly elevated depending on the severity of liver damage or cholestasis. Normal alkaline phosphatase levels may be found, but in cases where there is associated cholestasis (often seen in autoimmune hepatitis), alkaline phosphatase can be elevated. Elevated albumin levels are usually not seen in liver disease, as the liver's ability to synthesize proteins, including albumin, is impaired; therefore, patients may have normal or decreased albumin levels. Thus, the notable increase in AST and ALT is the defining lab finding in this condition.