Evaluation of Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests reflect a broad number of processes that are performed by the liver. In essence, the liver is two organ systems that are intimately related. These are the liver cells themselves (hepatocytes) and the biliary tract. At times, the combination of these two organ systems is referred to as the hepatobiliary system.
A liver panel is a group of tests that reflect both the hepatocytes and the biliary tract.
Aminotransferases are the collective names for two enzymes that indicate whether there is inflammation to the liver cells (hepatocytes). These two enzymes are aspartate amino transferase (AST SGOT) and alanine amino transferase (ALT SGPT).
These two enzymes are elevated when the hepatocytes become injured.
Alkaline phosphatase, as discussed above, is an enzyme that is present in a variety of bodily tissues. As noted above, these include bone, intestine, and the liver.
Alkaline phosphatase is used to indicate whether the biliary tract has become inflamed. This may occur with gallstones or any bile duct obstruction. In addition, diseases involving the microscopic bile ducts can cause elevated alkaline phosphatase as well.
5' nucleotidase is an enzyme that is used to confirm that the elevated alkaline phosphatase is from the liver. Thus it is a test which is helpful in differentiating alkaline phosphatase origin.
Gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is an enzyme that is also present in a number of different organs. In many cases, GGT may be elevated. However, it is a specific indicator of liver damage or inflammation until the GGT becomes markedly elevated.
Globetrotter's Pocket Doc - the only English international medical communication book for travelers to foreign countries
Patient Education:
|
