How to read the liver function physical examination and laboratory test report

The liver function physical examination laboratory report can comprehensively evaluate the liver health status through key indicators such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, etc. Abnormal main observation indicators may indicate diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver, and cirrhosis, and further judgment should be made based on clinical symptoms and other examinations.

1. Aspartate transaminase

Aspartate transaminase mainly exists in liver cells, with a normal value of 0-40U/L. Elevated values are commonly seen in viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, or alcoholic liver disease, and mild increases may be related to staying up late and vigorous exercise. If it exceeds twice the normal value, one should be alert to acute liver injury. If accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue and decreased appetite, timely consultation with a gastroenterologist should be sought.

2. The normal value of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is 0-35U/L, and its ratio to alanine aminotransferase (ALT) can help determine the type of liver injury. During myocardial infarction, this indicator will also significantly increase, and the increase caused by simple liver disease is usually manifested as higher alanine aminotransferase. Long term drinkers with elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase need to be screened for alcoholic liver disease.

3. Total bilirubin

The normal value of total bilirubin is 1.7-21 μ mol/L, including direct bilirubin and indirect bilirubin. Hemolytic diseases are mainly characterized by an increase in indirect bilirubin, while biliary obstruction results in a significant increase in direct bilirubin. Physiological jaundice in newborns usually subsides within 2 weeks, while in adults, jaundice accompanied by skin itching requires screening for bile duct stones or tumors.

4. Albumin

The normal range of albumin is 35-55g/L, and a decrease may reflect a decrease in synthesis function or malnutrition in chronic liver disease. When the albumin level in patients with cirrhosis is below 30g/L, ascites may occur. It is necessary to limit sodium intake and supplement with high-quality protein. A large amount of proteinuria in kidney disease patients can also lead to a decrease in albumin.

5. Alkaline phosphatase

The normal value of alkaline phosphatase is 40-150U/L, and a significant increase is common in bile stasis, bone disease, or pregnancy. During the growth and development period of children, there may be physiological elevation, and middle-aged and elderly people with bone pain need to be screened for hyperparathyroidism. Simultaneous elevation of gamma glutamyltranspeptidase is often indicative of biliary tract disease.

interpretation of liver function reports requires fasting for 8-12 hours before blood collection, avoiding alcohol consumption and vigorous exercise that may affect the results. Mild abnormalities in a single indicator can be rechecked one month later. For obvious abnormalities or abnormalities in multiple indicators, it is recommended to complete hepatitis virus screening, liver ultrasound, and other examinations. Regular daily routines should be maintained, weight should be controlled, and drug abuse should be avoided. Hepatitis patients should regularly monitor alpha fetoprotein. Seek medical attention immediately when symptoms such as yellow eyes, yellow urine, and abdominal distension appear.