Liver enzymes in alcohol-discordant twins

Seventy moderately alcohol-discordant male twin pairs have been investigated with respect to some liver enzymes. No differences were found as regards S-ALAT, while significantly higher enzyme levels were demonstrated for S-ASAT, S-ALP and S-GT among the high alcohol consumers compared to their low consuming co-twins. Especially S-GT was found to be a valuable and sensitive test in the detection of even a moderate alcohol intake in working and socially well adapted subjects. These results were obtained in a subject group in which the influence of genetic factors was kept to a minimum.