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What does the eight-item liver function test check?

Jan 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the eight items of liver function tests mainly include alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), total protein, albumin, and globulin. Specific test items may vary slightly between hospitals. Before undergoing the eight-item liver function test, it is recommended to maintain a light diet and avoid greasy, fried, high-fat, and high-cholesterol foods.

Generally, the eight main liver function tests examine indicators such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), and globulin (GLB). Specific test items may vary depending on the hospital. Detailed descriptions are as follows:

1. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

Alanine aminotransferase is a key indicator reflecting liver cell damage. When liver cells are injured, ALT is released into the bloodstream, causing elevated blood levels.

2. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Aspartate aminotransferase also serves as an important marker for assessing liver cell damage. Elevated AST levels may indicate injury to the liver or skeletal muscles.

3. Bilirubin

Bilirubin includes total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and indirect bilirubin. It mainly reflects the liver's function in transformation, uptake, and excretion, as well as the patency of the biliary tract.

4. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

Alkaline phosphatase is widely present in various tissues and organs of the body, such as the liver, bones, and intestines. Alkaline phosphatase in the liver mainly originates from bile duct cells. When bile excretion is impaired, ALP may flow back into the bloodstream, leading to elevated blood levels.

5. Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)

Gamma-glutamyl transferase is mainly found in tissues such as the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Increased blood levels may be associated with intrahepatic overproduction or bile stasis.

6. Total Protein (TP)

Total protein consists of albumin and globulin. Its blood concentration reflects the liver's synthetic function and nutritional status.

7. Albumin (ALB)

Albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver. Its blood concentration reflects the liver's synthetic capacity. Decreased albumin levels are commonly seen in liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, which lead to reduced synthetic function.

8. Globulin (GLB)

Globulin is another important protein in the blood. Elevated levels may be associated with infections, autoimmune diseases, and other conditions.

Prior to undergoing the eight-item liver function test, it is advisable to maintain a light diet and avoid greasy, fried, high-fat, and high-cholesterol foods, such as hot pot and fatty meats. Additionally, one should avoid consuming beverages that may affect liver function, such as coffee, strong tea, and alcohol.

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