Liver functions

Question 1

What is the functional unit of the liver?

Answer 1

The hepatic acinus

The hepatic acinus allows the liver to take up nutrients and particulates.

Question 2

What are the main components assessed in Liver Function Tests (LFTs)?

Answer 2

• Bilirubin
• Aminotransferases (ALT and AST)
• Gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT)
• Alkaline phosphatase (Alk Phos)
• Albumin
• Prothrombin time ratio

These tests help evaluate liver function and detect liver damage.

Question 3

What condition is indicated by blockage of the bile ducts?

Answer 3

Cholestasis

This blockage leads to jaundice, characterized by a yellow tint of the skin and sclera.

Question 4

What were the bilirubin levels in the case study?

Answer 4

210 um/l (normal < 17)

Elevated bilirubin indicates liver dysfunction.

Question 5

What is the significance of elevated ALT and AST levels?

Answer 5

They indicate hepatocyte damage

ALT and AST are aminotransferases that reflect liver cell injury.

Question 6

What does a high GGT level suggest?

Answer 6

Impaired bile flow

GGT is often elevated in cholestasis.

Question 7

What is the normal range for alkaline phosphatase (ALP)?

Answer 7

Normal < 125 iu/l

Elevated ALP can indicate liver or bone disease.

Question 8

What are common symptoms of liver cirrhosis?

Answer 8

• Jaundice
• Drowsiness
• Ascites
• Tremors

These symptoms suggest advanced liver disease.

Question 9

What is the relationship between the liver and blood sugar regulation?

Answer 9

The liver regulates blood sugar together with the pancreas

This regulation is crucial for maintaining metabolic homeostasis.

Question 10

What is the largest organ in the body?

Answer 10

The liver

The liver acts as the biochemical laboratory of the body.

Question 11

Fill in the blank: The liver is the major organ to _______ various toxins in the body.

Answer 11

detoxify

Detoxification is one of the liver’s primary functions.

Question 12

What was the patient’s alcohol consumption in the case study?

Answer 12

1/2 bottle of vodka a day for 8 years

This history suggests potential alcohol-related liver disease.

Question 13

What is the clinical significance of measuring albumin levels?

Answer 13

Reflects synthetic function of the liver

Low albumin levels can indicate liver dysfunction.

Question 14

True or False: Liver function tests can diagnose the presence of liver disease.

Answer 14

True

LFTs, along with clinical examination and imaging, are essential for diagnosis.

Question 15

What is a common blood test result indicating liver dysfunction?

Answer 15

Prothrombin time (PT) prolonged

A PT of 16 sec (normal 9 sec) suggests impaired liver function.

Question 16

What are the potential causes of cholestasis?

Answer 16

• Gallstones
• Tumors at the head of the pancreas
• Ampullary lesions

All these conditions can obstruct bile flow.