AST/ALT Ratio Calculator

1. What is an AST/ALT Ratio Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the AST/ALT ratio (De Ritis ratio) to assess liver health.

Purpose: It helps differentiate between causes of liver damage, such as alcoholic hepatitis, NAFLD, or cirrhosis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The AST/ALT ratio is calculated using:

\[ \text{AST/ALT Ratio} = \frac{\text{AST (U/L)}}{\text{ALT (U/L)}} \]

Unit conversions to U/L:

U/mL to U/L: Multiply by 1000
U/cL to U/L: Multiply by 100
U/mm³ to U/L: Multiply by 1000
U/cm³ to U/L: Multiply by 1000
U/dm³ to U/L: Multiply by 1
U/cu in to U/L: Multiply by 61.0237
U/cu ft to U/L: Multiply by 0.0353147

Explanation: AST and ALT are converted to U/L, then the ratio is computed.

3. Importance of AST/ALT Ratio Calculation

Details: The ratio helps identify the cause of liver enzyme elevation, with >2 suggesting alcoholic liver disease and <1 indicating NAFLD or viral hepatitis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter AST and ALT values (in any supported unit); both must be >0. Results show the AST/ALT ratio.

Normal: ~1
Alcoholic Hepatitis: > 2
NAFLD/Viral Hepatitis: < 1
Cirrhosis: > 1 (typically < 2)

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What does a high AST/ALT ratio mean?
A ratio >2 often indicates alcoholic liver disease, while >1 may suggest cirrhosis or advanced fibrosis.

Q2: What if my ratio is less than 1?
A ratio <1 is typically seen in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or viral hepatitis, but clinical correlation is needed.

Q3: Can exercise affect my AST/ALT ratio?
Yes, intense exercise can elevate AST more than ALT, potentially increasing the ratio temporarily.

Q4: Is the AST/ALT ratio enough to diagnose liver disease?
No, it’s a screening tool. Additional tests like imaging or biopsy are often needed for a definitive diagnosis.

Q5: When should I see a doctor?
Consult a doctor if your ratio is abnormal, especially with symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain.