Liver disease 2

Produces bile to help with digestion

To test for liver disease and its severity

A chemical produced when red blood cells break down

Liver function tests are special tests that measure different chemicals in the blood that are made by the liver. They help diagnose liver disease by indicating the levels of different chemicals in the blood that are produced by the liver, such as gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and bilirubin.

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is a chemical found in many organs throughout the body, but it is mainly in the liver. Its presence in the blood at higher than normal levels can indicate liver disease.

Bilirubin is a chemical that is produced when red blood cells break down. High levels of bilirubin in the blood can cause jaundice, which makes the skin and eyes appear yellow.

Prothrombin is a protein needed for blood clotting. Checking its levels in patients with liver damage is important because their blood may not be able to clot properly.

High levels of ALP could indicate that the bile ducts in the liver are blocked due to a liver disease such as primary biliary cirrhosis or cholestasis. It can help diagnose liver diseases when considered along with the AST/ALP ratio.

The AST/ALP ratio is the ratio of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to ALP. An AST/ALP ratio that is higher than normal can indicate liver damage and help diagnose liver or bile duct diseases.

Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps with many functions in the body, such as maintaining blood pressure.

Two examples of liver diseases mentioned in the text are Wilson's disease and hemochromatosis, where too much copper or iron respectively build up in the liver.

Liver function tests are important tools for doctors to evaluate how well the liver is functioning and identify any damage or diseases that may be present.

The liver performs various functions such as producing bile, storing and releasing glucose, and regulating blood clotting.

Gamma-glutamyl transferase/transpeptidase, bilirubin, and prothrombin time are some of the tests that can help diagnose and monitor liver disease.

A high aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase ratio suggests hepatitis or cholestatic disorder.

Primary biliary cirrhosis, cholestasis, and intra- or extrahepatic bile duct obstruction (tumors).

Albumin levels can be used as an indicator of liver function, as it is synthesized exclusively by hepatocytes. It is a major protein in plasma involved in regulating oncotic pressure and binding hormones, drugs, and fatty acids.

These tests can have limited diagnostic and prognostic value.

Dehydration or malnutrition are possible causes, although the specific cause in the case report is unknown.

It is a genetic disorder that causes the accumulation of copper in the liver, leading to liver cirrhosis and neurological problems.

It is a genetic disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron, leading to liver damage and other complications.

What are three liver function tests that can indicate liver disease?

Gamma-glutamyl transferase/transpeptidase, bilirubin, and prothrombin time.

What is the role of the liver in synthesizing albumin and clotting factors?

To assess liver function.

What are two examples of liver diseases that can lead to liver failure?

Wilson's disease and Haemochromatosis.

The standard liver function tests include aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, albumin, and prothrombin time.

The normal range of aminotransferases in plasma is 5-45 IU/L. They are important enzymes that help diagnose liver disease.

An increase in ALT and AST plasma levels may occur due to viral hepatitis.

Common liver function tests include the Ratio ASP/ALP and Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase for liver and biliary tract detection.

Increased bilirubin levels may lead to jaundice and can be an indicator of significant liver damage.

Albumin is synthesized only by hepatocytes and can be a reliable indicator of chronic liver disease.

Common liver function tests include the Ratio ASP/ALP and Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase which can detect liver and biliary tract damage, but may not provide a specific diagnosis.

Bilirubin levels increase after significant liver damage and may lead to jaundice.

Albumin is synthesized only by hepatocytes and can be a reliable indicator of chronic liver disease.