Description
Hepatic Function Panel, Plasma test is used to screen for liver damage and is used to help diagnose and monitor liver disease. This liver function test panel measures the levels of specific enzymes and proteins in the blood and how well the liver is performing its normal functions.
The liver filters the blood coming from the digestive tract, before passing it along to the rest of the body. This organ also detoxifies chemicals and metabolizes drugs and secretes bile that ends up back in the intestines. The liver also makes proteins that are important for blood clotting and other functions.
The liver carries out over 500 tasks throughout the body, but its main focus is metabolic. The human liver filters up to 1.5 liters of blood per minute. At any given time the liver holds 10% of the total blood in your body. Anything consumed goes through the liver, which then breaks down the food, extracts the energy, and removes any toxins from the bloodstream.
The Hepatic Function Panel, Plasma Test include the following tests
Total Protein - Total protein measurements can help diagnose liver diseases. Total Protein measures the amount of protein in your blood. The two main proteins found in the blood are globulins and albumin.
Albumin - Albumin is a protein made by the liver. Measuring levels of albumin is helpful in diagnosing liver disease. An albumin test measures how well your liver is making the proteins that your body needs.
Globulin (calculated) - Globulin is a protein made in your liver and helps the immune system fight infections. Low globulin levels can be a sign of liver damage or other conditions.
Albumin/Globulin Ratio (calculated) - The A/G ratio is calculated from measured total protein, measured albumin, and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin) to help diagnose diseases.
Bilirubin, Total - This test measure direct and indirect levels of bilirubin for a total bilirubin value. In cases of an obstruction or inflamed liver, the liver cannot eliminate excess bilirubin. When the body has too much bilirubin, your skin and the whites of your eyes will start to yellow causing a condition called jaundice.
Bilirubin, Direct - Bilirubin is made in the body when old red blood cells are broken down. Bilirubin attached to sugar is called “direct” or “conjugated” bilirubin.
Bilirubin, Indirect - Bilirubin that is not attached to sugar is called “indirect” or “unconjugated” bilirubin.
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) - In conditions affecting the liver, damaged liver cells release increased amounts of ALP into the blood.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT/SGPT) - ALT is an enzyme found predominantly in the cells of the liver. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the blood.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST/SGOT) - AST is a liver enzyme that is useful in helping to diagnose liver diseases.
