Question 1

How does one interpret the results of a liver function test?

Accepted Answer

A raised GGT and/or other abnormalities in the LFTs would indicate that the liver is not functioning properly. Additionally, if the values are too high it can measure the severity of a disease, particularly scarring of the liver (cirrhosis).

Question 2

Do all types of blood tests detect a liver issue?

Accepted Answer

Yes, certain blood tests can also detect if you have low levels of specific substances, such as a protein called serum albumin, which is made by the liver. A low level of serum albumin suggests your liver is not functioning properly.

Question 3

What is the lever function test?

Accepted Answer

Liver function tests are blood tests that measure different substances produced by your liver. These measurements can help your doctor evaluate the overall health of your liver and how well it's working. A liver panel will often measure several substances in one blood sample.

Question 4

Does cirrhosis always appear on blood tests (ALT/AST)?

Accepted Answer

No not always. However, one can rely on the AST/ALT ratio. An AST/ALT ratio higher than one (where the AST is higher than ALT) means you may have cirrhosis. An AST/ALT ratio higher than 2:1 (where the AST is more than twice as high as the ALT) is a sign of alcoholic liver disease.

Question 5

How to test for liver disease?

Accepted Answer

A group of blood tests called liver function tests can be used to diagnose liver disease. Other blood tests can be done to look for specific liver problems or genetic conditions. For advanced diagnosis one can opt for imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan and MRI can show liver damage.

Question 6

What happens when the PT is high in viral hepatitis?

Accepted Answer

When the PT is high, it takes longer for the blood to clot (17 seconds, for example). This usually happens because the liver is not making the right amount of blood clotting proteins, so the clotting process takes longer. A high PT usually means that there is serious liver damage or cirrhosis.

Question 7

What are the small functions of the liver?

Accepted Answer

The liver is the storage location for fat-soluble vitamins. Additionally, the liver plays a role in heme breakdown into unconjugated bilirubin and conjugates it.

Question 8

How does blood enter the liver?

Accepted Answer

The liver receives a blood supply from two sources. The first is the hepatic artery which delivers oxygenated blood from the general circulation. The second is the hepatic portal vein delivering deoxygenated blood from the small intestine containing nutrients.

Question 9

What is the role of prothrombin?

Accepted Answer

Prothrombin is one of the key proteins in the blood coagulation system.

Question 10

Will I be sick after the EDTA blood test?

Accepted Answer

No, you will not be sick after EDTA blood test.

Question 11

How do doctors diagnose blood clots?

Accepted Answer

Doctors usually diagnose blood clots by performing venous ultrasounds. Sound waves are used to create a view of your veins.

Question 12

What is the use of a bilirubin blood test?

Accepted Answer

A bilirubin blood test is used to check the health of your liver. The test is also commonly used to help diagnose newborn jaundice.

Question 13

What foods are good for liver repair?

Accepted Answer

Many foods contain specific compounds or antioxidants that have been shown to support liver function. A few examples include grapefruit, blueberries, cranberries, fatty fish, olive oil, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli or brussels sprouts.

Question 14

What does it mean to have high levels of liver enzymes?

Accepted Answer

High levels of liver enzymes often indicate inflammation or damage to cells in the liver. Inflamed or injured liver cells leak higher than normal amounts of certain chemicals, including liver enzymes, into the bloodstream, showing increased liver enzymes on blood tests.

Question 15

Does alopecia show up in blood tests?

Accepted Answer

Alopecia is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist by looking at the affected area (scalp).

Question 16

What does it mean if your alt blood test is elevated to 113?

Accepted Answer

It means that you are suffering from tissue damage or an infection in the liver. Hence, you are recommended to treat it at the earliest.

Question 17

Which vitamin is the blood clot formed in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin K helps to make various proteins that are needed for blood clotting and the building of bones.

Question 18

What does prothrombin time measure?

Accepted Answer

A prothrombin time (PT) test measures how long it takes for a clot to form in a blood sample.

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