Key Facts Flashcards
Liver function test: ALT vs ALP
ALT is found in high concentrations within hepatocytes and enters the blood following hepatocellular injury. It is, therefore, a useful marker of hepatocellular injury.
ALP is particularly concentrated in the liver, bile duct and bone tissues. ALP is often raised in liver pathology due to increased synthesis in response to cholestasis. As a result, ALP is a useful indirect marker of cholestasis.
Main hip flexor
The psoas is the primary hip flexor, assisted by the iliacus.
Endothelin
Endothelins are peptides with receptors and effects in many body organs.
Endothelin constricts blood vessels and raises blood pressure.
The endothelins are normally kept in balance by other mechanisms, but when over-expressed, they contribute to high blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, and potentially other diseases.
