What are the eight tests included in liver function testing?

Liver function tests with 8 items include alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, total protein, albumin, and globulin. These indicators provide a comprehensive assessment of liver function. If test results are abnormal or symptoms such as fatigue or jaundice occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.

1. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): Primarily found within liver cells, ALT is a sensitive indicator of hepatocellular injury. Elevated levels usually suggest liver cell damage, commonly seen in conditions such as hepatitis and fatty liver disease.

2. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Widely present in tissues such as the liver and heart, AST is released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged. Increased AST levels help assess the extent of liver injury, although cardiac diseases must also be ruled out as a potential cause.

3. Total Bilirubin: Comprising both direct and indirect bilirubin, this reflects liver metabolic function. Elevated levels can lead to jaundice and indicate impaired bilirubin metabolism or bile duct obstruction.

4. Direct Bilirubin: This is bilirubin processed by the liver. Elevated levels often result from biliary obstruction that impedes bile excretion, commonly seen in conditions such as bile duct stones or cholangiocarcinoma.

5. Indirect Bilirubin: This refers to unconjugated bilirubin that has not yet been processed by the liver. Increased levels may result from excessive red blood cell destruction or reduced hepatic metabolic capacity, as seen in hemolytic disorders or hepatitis.

6. Total Protein: Includes albumin and globulin, reflecting the liver's synthetic function. Decreased levels may indicate impaired liver synthesis or malnutrition, while elevated levels may signal infection or autoimmune diseases.

7. Albumin: Synthesized by the liver, albumin is an important marker of liver synthetic function. Low levels suggest decreased synthetic capacity or the presence of chronic wasting diseases.

8. Globulin: Produced by the immune system, elevated levels may indicate liver inflammation, infection, or autoimmune liver diseases. Decreased levels are often due to immunodeficiency or insufficient synthesis substrates.

For daily care, maintain regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), avoid staying up late and excessive fatigue, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to reduce liver burden. Eat a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and vitamins, undergo regular physical examinations to monitor liver function, and follow medical advice to adjust lifestyle habits accordingly.