Liver and Kidney Function Test

The ALT test, also known as Alanine Aminotransferase test, is a blood test that helps to evaluate the health of your liver. The liver is an important organ that performs various functions in your body, such as filtering toxins, producing bile for digestion, and storing vitamins and minerals.

The ALT test measures the levels of an enzyme called alanine aminotransferase in your blood. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, it releases this enzyme into the bloodstream. Therefore, the ALT test can indicate if there is any liver damage or disease present.

High levels of ALT may suggest liver conditions like hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), or fatty liver disease. It can also be a sign of certain medications or alcohol abuse affecting the liver.

Detecting abnormal ALT levels can help diagnose liver problems early on, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of further damage.

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Albumin is a test that measures the level of a protein called albumin in your blood. Albumin is an important protein that helps carry various substances, such as hormones, vitamins, and medications, throughout your body. This test is commonly used to assess the health of your liver and kidneys.

When your liver or kidneys are not functioning properly, the level of albumin in your blood may decrease. Low levels of albumin can indicate liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or inflammation in the body. It can also be a sign of a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart failure.

Measuring the albumin level can give valuable insights into your overall health and identify any underlying conditions that may need further evaluation or treatment. This test is usually performed as part of a routine check-up or if you are experiencing symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.

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The Alkaline Phosphatase test is a blood test that measures the levels of an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase in your body. This enzyme is found in various tissues, such as the liver, bones, and intestines.

The test is usually ordered to help diagnose and monitor certain health conditions. For example, it can help detect liver or bone diseases, such as hepatitis or osteoporosis. It can also be used to check the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions.

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 This test measures the activity of aspartate transaminase (AST), an enzyme found primarily in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle, to help diagnose and monitor liver damage or disease, heart injury, and muscle disorders.

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The Gamma GT test is a blood test that measures the levels of an enzyme called Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) in your body. This test is commonly used to check the health of your liver and to detect any potential liver damage or disease.

The liver is an important organ that helps filter out toxins and waste from your body. GGT is an enzyme that is mainly found in the liver, but it is also present in other organs like the pancreas and kidneys. When the liver is damaged or not functioning properly, the levels of GGT in the blood can increase.

By measuring the levels of GGT, doctors can get an idea of how well your liver is working. High levels of GGT may indicate liver problems such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or alcohol abuse. It can also be a sign of other health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

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The Globulin test is a blood test that measures the levels of a specific type of protein called globulin in your body. Globulins are an important part of your immune system and help fight off infections and diseases. This test is usually done to check if your immune system is functioning properly and to diagnose certain medical conditions.

High levels of globulin may indicate an infection, chronic inflammation, or an autoimmune disorder. On the other hand, low levels of globulin may suggest a liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, or a problem with your immune system.

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The Bilirubin (Total) test is a blood test that measures the level of a substance called bilirubin in your body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells break down. This test is commonly used to check the health of your liver and to diagnose certain liver conditions.

When your liver is working properly, it helps remove bilirubin from your body. However, if your liver is not functioning well, it may not be able to process bilirubin effectively, leading to an increase in its levels. High levels of bilirubin can cause a yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice.

By measuring the amount of bilirubin in your blood, this test can help determine if your liver is functioning properly or if there may be an underlying liver problem.

Your doctor may order this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as yellowing of the skin, fatigue, or abdominal pain, or if they suspect a liver disorder.

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Total Protein is the total amount of two proteins found in the serum of the blood, these are albumin and globulin. Albumin is needed to keep fluid in the bloodstream whereas globulin is an essential part of the immune system. Total protein tests are used as an indicator to there being a problem with albumin or globulin levels.
 

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Creatinine is a test that measures the level of a waste product called creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is produced by your muscles and is normally filtered out of your body by your kidneys. This test helps to evaluate how well your kidneys are functioning.

When your kidneys are healthy, they efficiently remove creatinine from your blood. However, if your kidneys are not working properly, the level of creatinine in your blood can increase. High levels of creatinine may indicate kidney damage or disease.

This test is often ordered if you have symptoms of kidney problems, such as frequent urination, swelling in your legs or feet, or changes in urine color. It is also used to monitor the progression of kidney disease and to adjust medication dosages for certain conditions.

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The eGFR test, or estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate test, is a crucial laboratory measurement used to assess kidney function. It estimates how well the kidneys are filtering blood and removing waste products. Here's a deeper look into what eGFR signifies and why it is so important:

What is eGFR?

eGFR is calculated from the blood level of creatinine along with other variables such as age, sex, and body size. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle metabolism and usually filtered out of the blood by the kidneys.

Why is the eGFR Test Used?

1. Detecting Kidney Disease: eGFR is primarily used to screen for and monitor kidney disease. Healthy kidneys effectively filter blood, but damaged kidneys may not perform as well, leading to a lower eGFR.
2. Monitoring Kidney Disease Progression: For patients already diagnosed with kidney disease, regular eGFR tests help monitor the disease's progression. Changes in eGFR over time can indicate whether the kidney function is stable, improving, or worsening.
3. Guiding Treatment: Kidney function, as measured by eGFR, influences decisions about medication dosages and other treatments. Some drugs are eliminated from the body through the kidneys, and reduced kidney function can affect how drugs are dosed and administered.
4. Evaluating Risk: A low eGFR indicates poor kidney function and can be associated with an increased risk of other complications like cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.

How is eGFR Calculated?

The eGFR is typically calculated using the creatinine level along with formulas such as the MDRD (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease) study equation or the CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) equation. These formulas adjust for factors like age, sex, race, and body size to provide a more accurate assessment of kidney function.

Interpretation of eGFR Results

• Normal Range: Generally, a normal eGFR value is above 90 mL/min/1.73m², indicating good kidney function.
• Mild to Moderate Decrease: An eGFR between 60 and 89 might suggest some kidney damage, particularly if other signs of kidney disease are present.
• Moderate to Severe Decrease: An eGFR below 60 may indicate chronic kidney disease.
• Severe Decrease: An eGFR below 30 suggests more serious kidney disease, potentially nearing kidney failure.
• Kidney Failure: An eGFR less than 15 typically indicates kidney failure, necessitating dialysis or transplantation for continued survival.

Regular monitoring of eGFR is essential for patients with known risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes and hypertension.

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Sodium is an essential mineral that helps maintain the balance of fluids in your body and plays a crucial role in nerve and muscle function. This test is commonly ordered to evaluate the overall health of your body and to diagnose certain medical conditions.

If your sodium levels are too high, it may suggest dehydration, kidney problems, or certain medications. On the other hand, low sodium levels can be a sign of excessive fluid intake, hormonal imbalances, or underlying health conditions like kidney or liver disease.

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Urea is a waste product that is produced when your body breaks down proteins. This test is commonly used to check how well your kidneys are functioning.

When your kidneys are healthy, they filter out urea and other waste products from your blood, which are then excreted in your urine. However, if your kidneys are not working properly, urea can build up in your blood.

By measuring the level of urea in your blood, you can get an idea of how well your kidneys are working.

This test can help diagnose kidney problems, such as kidney disease or damage. It can also be used to monitor the progress of kidney disease and determine the effectiveness of treatment.
 

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