What diseases can be detected by the four liver function tests?

Generally, the four-item liver function test refers to a set of four liver function tests, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin. The four-item liver function test may detect diseases such as fatty liver, alcoholic liver disease, viral hepatitis, cholestasis, and cirrhosis. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Fatty Liver

Fatty liver refers to excessive fat content in the liver, exceeding the normal proportion. Mild fatty liver may have no obvious symptoms. In the four-item liver function test, ALT and AST levels may be mildly elevated, indicating liver cell damage.

2. Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcoholic liver disease is a liver disorder caused by long-term heavy alcohol consumption. In the four-item liver function test, ALT, AST, and total bilirubin levels may be elevated.

3. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is liver inflammation caused by hepatitis virus infection. In the four-item liver function test, ALT and AST levels will be elevated, indicating significant liver cell damage.

4. Cholestasis

Cholestasis refers to the retention of bile within the liver or bile ducts, leading to accumulation of bile components. In the four-item liver function test, direct bilirubin and total bilirubin levels will be significantly elevated, indicating impaired bile excretion.

5. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a pathological condition that occurs after long-term liver damage. In the four-item liver function test, ALT and AST levels may be elevated, but they may also decrease due to extensive liver cell necrosis.

Maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits, avoiding long-term alcohol consumption and excessive fatigue in daily life, can help prevent the occurrence of liver diseases.