Liver Function Markers & Misc. Flashcards
What is Total Bilirubin
Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment produced during the
breakdown of red blood cells. Total bilirubin includes both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin. It serves as a marker of liver function and the body’s ability to process and excrete bilirubin
What is low value Total Bilirubin
Low total bilirubin levels are generally less concerning but may indicate a reduced breakdown of red blood cells or liver dysfunction, which can occur in conditions
such as anemia or a liver disease that impairs bilirubin processing
What is high value Total Bilirubin
High total bilirubin levels can indicate liver dysfunction, hemolytic anemia, or bile duct obstruction, as elevated bilirubin results from an excess of red blood cell
breakdown products or impaired liver processing, leading to jaundice and potential damage to liver or bile ducts
What is Direct Bilirubin
Direct Bilirubin, also known as conjugated bilirubin, is the
form that has been processed by the liver and is ready for excretion. It plays a crucial role in the elimination of waste products from the body.
What is low value Direct Bilirubin
Low direct (conjugated) bilirubin levels are typically not concerning and often indicate that the liver is effectively processing and conjugating bilirubin, but could
also suggest an underlying condition such as Gilbert’s syndrome or a decreased rate of red blood cell breakdown
What is high value Direct Bilirubin
High direct (conjugated) bilirubin levels often indicate increased breakdown of red blood cells or impaired liver function, which can be associated with conditions such as hemolytic anemia, Gilbert’s syndrome, or liver disease, leading to symptoms like jaundice and dark urine
What is Indirect Bilirubin
Indirect Bilirubin, also known as unconjugated bilirubin, is the form that has not undergone liver processing. It is produced from the breakdown of
hemoglobin in red blood cells and is transported to the liver, where it is conjugated to become direct bilirubin
What is low value Indirect Bilirubin
Low levels of indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin generally indicate a reduced rate of red blood cell breakdown or efficient bilirubin metabolism, which is often not a concern but may reflect conditions such as liver disease or certain genetic disorders affecting bilirubin processing
What is high value Indirect Bilirubin
High indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin levels typically indicate increased red blood cell breakdown or impaired liver function, which can be caused by conditions such
as hemolytic anemia, Gilbert’s syndrome, or liver disease, potentially leading to jaundice and other symptoms of liver dysfunction
What is Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
LDH is an enzyme involved in cellular energy production,
particularly in anaerobic metabolism. It is found in various tissues, including the liver, heart, kidneys, and muscles
What is low value LDH
Low lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels are generally less concerning, but they can occasionally indicate conditions such as vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, or a potential issue with liver or kidney function, as LDH is involved in various metabolic processes and its levels reflect tissue health
What is high value LDH
High Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) levels can indicate tissue damage or disease, as elevated LDH is often associated with conditions such as liver disease,
myocardial infarction, hemolytic anemia, or malignancies, reflecting widespread cellular injury or stress
What is GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)
GGT is an enzyme found predominantly in the liver, bile ducts, and kidneys. It plays a role in glutathione metabolism and detoxification processes
What is low value GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)
Low GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) levels are generally less concerning and may indicate a lower risk of liver disease or alcohol-related liver damage,
as GGT is an enzyme often elevated in such conditions; however, very low levels can also be seen in rare genetic disorders or with certain medications
What is high value GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)
High GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) levels may indicate liver dysfunction or disease, such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or alcohol abuse, as well as bile duct obstruction, with elevated GGT often reflecting issues with liver enzyme metabolism and detoxification processes
