Speculum of the liver
The liver rarely hurts - enzymes speak before symptoms: an increase in ALT is typical for viral and fatty lesions, the predominance of AST is for alcoholic and muscle lesions. The AST/ALT ratio helps in diagnosis. Monitoring is required when taking statins, antifungals, and tuberculostatics. An increase is a reason for a hepatitis panel and ultrasound, available here.
When is it appointed?
- prevention - condition of the liver, kidneys, metabolism;
- preoperative examination;
- control when taking medications that affect the liver and kidneys;
- diabetes, gout, jaundice, edema - targeted diagnosis;
- monitoring of chronic diseases over time.
What is blood biochemistry
Biochemical tests measure organ function through molecules in the serum: liver enzymes (ALT/AST) “leak” when cells are damaged, bilirubin reflects bile metabolism, creatinine and urea - kidney filtration, glucose - carbohydrate metabolism. A panel of six key indicators closes the basic check; individual tests are selected in a targeted manner. Strictly on an empty stomach - otherwise some of the indicators will be distorted.
