ALT

Alanine-aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily synthesized by the liver, aiding in crucial chemical reactions within the body. In healthy adults, low levels of ALT in the blood are typical, as higher concentrations are predominantly found within the liver.

Reduced ALT levels may signal a deficiency in vitamin B6. However, when the liver undergoes damage due to accidents or diseases, ALT is released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels. Increased ALT levels can also result from factors such as red blood cell damage, heat stroke, excessive vitamin A intake, bile duct blockage, heart issues, kidney damage, muscle injury, alcohol misuse, or certain medications like statins, aspirin, antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, barbiturates, and narcotics.

Very high ALT levels, surpassing the reference range by 20 to 50-fold, often indicate significant liver damage, potentially stemming from acute hepatitis, liver cancer, or drug overdose. Symptoms of liver disease may include jaundice, nausea, fatigue, and weakness.

AST

Similar to ALT, aspartate-aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme present in the liver and other organs, typically not abundant in the bloodstream. However, when organs sustain damage, they release excess AST into the blood, detectable through our test. AST and ALT fulfill comparable roles within the body, thus, our tests incorporate both markers to provide a comprehensive assessment of organ health. Elevated levels of AST, akin to ALT, may indicate various conditions, with liver disease being the most common. Additionally, factors such as pregnancy and strenuous exercise can lead to increased AST levels.

AST/ALT Ratio

The AST/ALT ratio compares the levels of two liver enzymes – Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) – to provide deeper insight into liver function and the nature of possible liver damage.

In most healthy individuals, ALT levels are higher than AST, resulting in a ratio of less than 1. A ratio greater than 1 can suggest more advanced liver damage, such as alcoholic liver disease or cirrhosis. In contrast, a lower ratio is often associated with mild liver conditions or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Interpreting the AST/ALT ratio alongside individual enzyme levels helps differentiate between various liver disorders.

TBILI

Bilirubin, a yellow pigment formed during the natural breakdown of red blood cells, plays a crucial role in bodily processes. After red blood cells complete their life cycle, they decompose, releasing bilirubin as one of their components. This bilirubin then travels through the bloodstream to the liver, where it is eventually excreted via bile. Our lab test evaluates Total Bilirubin (TBILI) levels in the blood, encompassing both direct and indirect bilirubin measurements.

While certain factors like vitamin C supplements can decrease TBILI levels, low TBILI levels are typically not a cause for alarm. Conversely, elevated TBILI levels often signify a blockage or liver-related ailment affecting the bile ducts or gallbladder. Conditions such as viral hepatitis, liver cancer, and alcoholic liver disease can lead to heightened TBILI levels, while blockages commonly arise from gallstones, tumors, or scarring.

HbA1c

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a blood marker that reflects the average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past two to three months. It measures the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is coated with sugar (glycated).

While HbA1c is widely used to monitor diabetes, it also plays a critical role in liver health assessments. Chronic liver disease and insulin resistance often go hand-in-hand, and elevated HbA1c levels can be an early indicator of metabolic dysfunction, which can exacerbate liver conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

HsCRP

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (HsCRP) is a marker of inflammation in the body. Unlike standard CRP tests, the high-sensitivity version helps detect even minor increases in inflammation, making it a valuable tool for identifying low-grade chronic inflammation.

Chronic inflammation is a key contributor to liver disease, particularly conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and other forms of metabolic liver damage. Elevated HsCRP levels may also signal systemic issues such as cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, or infections.

When used alongside liver enzymes, HsCRP can help identify inflammation-related liver stress, even in the early stages before structural damage is detectable.

GGT

Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) is an enzyme primarily located in the liver, bile ducts, and pancreas. It plays a vital role in metabolizing drugs and other toxins and in transporting amino acids across cell membranes. In a healthy liver, GGT is present in low concentrations in the blood.

Elevated GGT levels are often one of the earliest indicators of liver or bile duct issues, particularly those caused by alcohol use, fatty liver disease, or cholestasis (bile flow obstruction). GGT levels can also rise due to pancreatitis, diabetes, heart failure, or the use of certain medications such as anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, or antibiotics.

Since GGT is especially sensitive to alcohol intake, even moderate consumption can temporarily raise levels. A high GGT reading is often used in combination with other liver markers (like ALT and AST) to help confirm liver-related concerns.

General

Please read the following instructions in detail before starting with the sample collection.