Liver Function Tests

Question 1

What are aminotransferases

Answer 1

Catalytic hepatocellular enzymes in amino acid metabolism and energy homeostasis
AST - present in the heart, muscle, kidney and brain - high levels are non specific to MI
ALT - specific to the liver

Question 2

What is Alkaline phosphates

Answer 2

Found in biliary epithelium of liver, bone and placenta. Increased level need to be supported alongside other LFTs as its non specific.
Raised GGT confirms raised alk phos due to bile obstruction

Question 3

What is GGT

Answer 3

Gamma glutaryl transferase
Enzyme present in hepatocytes

Question 4

What is bilirubin

Answer 4

Produced when RBCs are broken and transported by albumin
Half life 20 days
Low levels due to IBS and malnutrition

Question 5

What is prothrombin

Answer 5

Vitamin K dependent clotting factor
PT - prothrombin time
Increased levels are a sign of acute liver failure