Abnormal Liver Function Tests

Abnormal Liver Function Tests Explained

Abnormal liver function tests indicate that a liver problem has developed. Such problems are usually indicated by the presence of elevated liver enzymes.

Liver function tests assess the overall health and the anatomical integrity of the liver. A liver function test is routinely called an "LFT," and includes measurements of various liver enzymes, including bilirubin, albumin, cholesterol and total protein. To learn more about these measurements, click on liver function test results.

Types of liver function tests

1) The first category of liver function tests measures detoxification and excretory functions. The serum bilirubin test is typical of this group.

Bilirubin is a substance in bile which is produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin is orange-colored. When bilirubin levels are above normal, a condition called jaundice results.

Excess bilirubin often results from the increased destruction of red blood cells, or hemolysis. A high bilirubin level might also occur because the liver can't remove bilirubin in a timely manner.

2) Another type of liver function test detects damage to the liver structure by measuring liver enzyme levels in the liver. Elevated liver enzymes tell your physician that there is an obstruction to bile flow, or there's damage to the liver cells.

3) A liver function test also includes tests that are based on bio-synthetic functions. These type of liver function tests typically include the serum globulin test and the serum albumin test.

Three types of globulins (globulins contain most of the antibodies of the blood) are measured by the serum globulin test. They are known as alpha, beta and gamma. The liver synthesizes the alpha and beta globulins, and the cells of the immune system synthesize the gamma globulin.

When the liver isn't functioning properly, the alpha and the beta globulins are decreased and the gamma globulin levels are increased.

Serum albumin is the main protein in blood plasma. A drop in the normal serum albumin level could be a clue of chronic liver disease. However, other conditions like kidney problems and malnutrition could also be the result of a decrease in serum albumin.

4) The last category of liver function tests includes ultrasonography and biopsy. Ultrasonography helps in the diagnosis of obstructive jaundice. It is also used when gallstone disease might be present. Ultrasonography is also helpful in detecting lesions in the liver. It can furthermore be used with a Doppler test to assess the condition of the blood vessels.

A biopsy can also be helpful in determining problems with liver function. A biopsy, of course, is done through the skin in cases where the cause of liver disease is undetermined. Biopsy can also be extremely helpful in diagnosing enlarged liver, suspected cancers, and enlarged spleen.

Abnormal liver function tests indicate that the liver is dealing with some kind of problem, like fatty liver, cirrhosis, or hepatitis. Further testing and diagnosis are in order.

Sponsored Advertising

How to Lose Weight and Feel Great With a Natural Solution to Liver Problems

The Fatty Liver Solution

Click hereto Get This Book Plus

Three Free Bonuses Worth $87...