liver tests Flashcards
what are liver function tests
serum albumin and bilirubin; prothrombin time
what are liver biochemistry tests
serum aspartate (AST), and alanine aminotransferases (AST) - an increase reflects hepatocellular damage; serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma glutamyl transoeotidase (Y-GT) - an increase reflects cholestasis
what is a serum albumin test for
this is a marker of synthetic function and is useful for guarding the severity of chronic liver disease: a falling level is a bad prognostic sign
what is bilirubin
Bilirubin is a substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin passes through the liver and is excreted in stool. Elevated levels of bilirubin (jaundice) might indicate liver damage or disease or certain types of anemia.
what is prothrombin time
PT is the time it takes your blood to clot. Increased PT may indicate liver damage but can also be elevated if you’re taking certain blood-thinning drugs, such as warfarin.
what are aminotransferases
enzymes are contained in hepatocytes and leak into the blood with liver cell damage. Two enzymes are measured
- aspartate aminotransferase
- alanine aminotransferase
what is aspartate aminotransferase
AST is an enzyme that helps metabolize amino acids. Like ALT, AST is normally present in blood at low levels. An increase in AST levels may indicate liver damage, disease or muscle damage.
what is alanine aminotransferase
ALT is an enzyme found in the liver that helps convert proteins into energy for the liver cells. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream and levels increase.
what is alkaline phosphate
ALP is an enzyme found in the liver and bone and is important for breaking down proteins. Higher-than-normal levels of ALP may indicate liver damage or disease, such as a blocked bile duct, or certain bone diseases.
what is gamma-glutamyl transpeptide
GGT is an enzyme in the blood. Higher-than-normal levels may indicate liver or bile duct damage.
what is albumin and total protein
Albumin is one of several proteins made in the liver. Your body needs these proteins to fight infections and to perform other functions. Lower-than-normal levels of albumin and total protein may indicate liver damage or disease.
what does hepatitis do in regards to liver tests
- increased ALT and AST
- suggests injury to the hepatocytes
What is the upper limit of ALT
55
in autoimmune hepatitis what occurs in regards to liver tests
- ALT elevation
- Anti smooth muscle antibodies increase
- Elevated IgE
