Liver diseases additional basic research

Examination for liver diseases, liver problems, or to detect excessive alcohol consumption.
To check for jaundice, which can be caused by liver disease and gallstones, among other things.

The following tests are performed in addition to Gamma GT, which if all goes well is already included in your chosen package:

• bilirubin directly
• ALAT (GPT)
• ASAT (GOT)

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is formed during the breakdown of red blood cells, first releasing hemoglobin which is then broken down into bilirubin. Bilirubin is converted in the liver to so-called conjugated bilirubin, which leaves the body through the intestines and feces. The test measures the conjugated bilirubin in the blood.

ALAT

The test determines the amount of the enzyme ALAT in blood. An enzyme is a protein that helps cells convert one substance into another.ALAT is present mainly in the liver. Smaller amounts are found in the kidneys, heart, and muscles. Normally, the amount of ALAT in the blood is low. When liver cells are damaged, ALAT leaks from the liver into the blood. This causes the amount of ALT in the blood to rise. This can happen before there are any complaints or symptoms (such as jaundice, yellow eyes, or yellow skin) that indicate liver damage.

ASAT

The test also determines the amount of the enzyme aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) in blood. An enzyme is a protein that helps cells convert one substance into another. ASAT is present mainly in the liver and in transverse muscle tissue (heart and skeletal muscle). Normally, the amount of ASAT in the blood is low. When liver or muscle cells are damaged, ASAT is released into the blood.

Symptoms that may occur with liver damage include: dark urine, nausea, vomiting, distended abdomen, sudden weight gain and abdominal pain. ALAT is also requested in:

• people who may have contracted hepatitis B or C virus infection
• people who drink too much alcohol
• people with a family history of liver disease
• people who have to take medicines that can potentially damage liver cells

For minor symptoms such as fatigue, ALT is sometimes tested to find out if there is a longer-standing liver disease. ALT is also measured to check if medical treatment to fight liver disease is working properly.