The AST:ALT ratio (De Ritis ratio) > 2 is characteristic of which hepatic condition?
- A Acute viral hepatitis A
- B Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- C Alcoholic hepatitis ✓
- D Drug-induced hepatitis (paracetamol toxicity)
Correct answer: C. Alcoholic hepatitis
Explanation
Alcoholic hepatitis classically shows an AST:ALT ratio greater than 2:1 (De Ritis ratio >2), because alcohol induces mitochondrial release of AST and depletes pyridoxal phosphate (vitamin B6), which is a cofactor required more for ALT synthesis than AST. In viral hepatitis and paracetamol toxicity, ALT typically exceeds AST (ratio <1). NAFLD shows a ratio usually below 1.
Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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