Liver Biochemistry

Question 1

What are some diseases of the liver?

Answer 1

Hepatitis (acute or chronic inflammation of the liver), jaundice, viral hepatitis (hep A, B or C), alcohol induced hepatitis, Drug induced hepatitis, 
liver cirrhosis (result of chronic hepatitis and characterized by fibers of liver lobules)

Question 2

What is the major change that occurs in diseases of the liver?

Answer 2

Normally leaky basement membrane b/w endothelial cells and hepatocytes replaced by high density membrane containing fibrillar collagen
Spaces between endothelial cells and fenestrations in plasma membrane lost
Increased stiffness of hepatic vascular channels offers resistance to free flow of blood through liver, elevated intra-sinusoidal fluid pressure, portal HTN
Impairment of free exchange of material b/w hepatocytes and blood*

Question 3

What are some tests that can assess liver function/metabolic panel?

Answer 3

Albumin, transaminases (AST or ALT), alkaline phosphatase, prothrombin time (PT), bilirubin (unconjugated and conjugated), urea (BUN), glucose, TAG, cholesterol (total, VLDL, LDL and HDL)
Indicate liver damage (broken hepatocytes releasing these substances into the blood)