LH-2. Liver Health

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: a1-antitrypsin, Quantitative, A1AT, Quantitative, AAT, Quantitative, Alpha1 Antitrypsin, Quantitative, Alpha1Antitrypsin Quantitative

Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Qn

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AAT deficiency) is an inherited condition that raises your risk for lung and liver disease. Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein that protects the lungs. The liver makes it. If the AAT proteins aren't the right shape, they get stuck in the liver cells and can't reach the lungs.

Also known as: AFP and AFP-L3%, AlphaFetoprotein AFP and AFPL3

AFP

AFP is used as a tumor marker to help detect and diagnose cancers of the liver, testes, and ovaries. Though the test is often ordered to monitor people with chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C because they have an increased lifetime risk of developing liver cancer. If a person has been diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma or another form of AFP-producing cancer, an AFP test may be ordered periodically to help monitor the person's response to therapy and to monitor for cancer recurrence.

AFP-L3

An AFP-L3% is sometimes also ordered to compare the amount of the AFP variant called AFP-L3 to the total amount of AFP. The test is used to help evaluate the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma, especially in those with chronic liver disease, and also to evaluate response of hepatocellular carcinoma to treatment.

Also known as: Bilirubin Fractionated

Bilirubin, Direct

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bilirubin, Indirect

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Also known as: Copper Oxide, Wilson's Disease

Ceruloplasmin

Ceruloplasmin is a copper-containing protein. Lower-than-normal ceruloplasmin levels may be due to: chronic liver disease, intestinal malabsorption, malnutrition, nephrotic syndrome and Wilson's copper storage disease (rare). Higher-than-normal ceruloplasmin levels may be due to: acute and chronic infections, lymphoma, pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis and use of birth control pills.

Also known as: Chem 12, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, CMP, Complete Metabolic Panel, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP, SMA 12, SMA 20

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood.

Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) is calculated from measured albumin and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin). Normally, there is a little more albumin than globulins, giving a normal A/G ratio of slightly over 1. Because disease states affect the relative amounts of albumin and globulin, the A/G ratio may provide a clue as to the cause of the change in protein levels. A low A/G ratio may reflect overproduction of globulins, such as seen in multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases, or underproduction of albumin, such as may occur with cirrhosis, or selective loss of albumin from the circulation, as may occur with kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome). A high A/G ratio suggests underproduction of immunoglobulins as may be seen in some genetic deficiencies and in some leukemias. More specific tests, such as liver enzyme tests and serum protein electrophoresis, must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. With a low total protein that is due to plasma expansion (dilution of the blood), the A/G ratio will typically be normal because both albumin and globulin will be diluted to the same extent.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone.

Alt

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver. Injury to the liver results in release of the substance into the blood.

AST

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in liver, heart, and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bun/Creatinine Ratio

A ratio between a person’s BUN and blood creatinine to help determine what is causing these concentrations to be higher than normal. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is usually between 10:1 and 20:1. An increased ratio may be due to a condition that causes a decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as congestive heart failure or dehydration. It may also be seen with increased protein, from gastrointestinal bleeding, or increased protein in the diet. The ratio may be decreased with liver disease (due to decrease in the formation of urea) and malnutrition.

Calcium

You have more calcium in your body than any other mineral. Calcium has many important jobs. The body stores more than 99 percent of its calcium in the bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong. The rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and the fluid between cells. Your body needs calcium to help muscles and blood vessels contract and expand, to secrete hormones and enzymes and to send messages through the nervous system.

Carbon Dioxide

CO2 is carbon dioxide. Measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3-). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level.

Chloride

Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body's acid-base balance. This is a measure of the amount of chloride in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood.

Creatinine

The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys work.

Egfr African American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

Egfr Non-Afr. American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

GFR-AFRICAN AMERICAN

GFR-NON AFRICAN AMERICAN

Globulin

Globulins is the collective term for most blood proteins other than albumin. Identifying the types of globulins can help diagnose certain disorders. Globulins are roughly divided into three groups: alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulines include various types of antibodies such as immunoglobulins (Ig) M, G, and A.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to work normally. It helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Protein, Total

The total protein is the total amount of two classes of proteins, albumin and globulin that are found in the fluid portion of your blood. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Your albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and your globulins are an important part of your immune system.

Sodium

Sodium is a substance that the body needs to work properly it is vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function

Urea Nitrogen (Bun)

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Also known as: Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT, Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase, Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase, Gamma-GT, GGTP, GTP

Ggt

Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is a test to measure the amount of the enzyme GGT in the blood.

Also known as: Iron and TIBC, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity TIBC, TIBC

% Saturation

Iron Binding Capacity

Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is a blood test to see if you may have too much or too little iron in the blood. Iron moves through the blood attached to a protein called transferrin. This test helps your doctor know how well that protein can carry iron in the blood.

Iron, Total

Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many functions. For example, iron is part of hemoglobin, a protein which carries oxygen from our lungs throughout our bodies. It helps our muscles store and use oxygen. Iron is also part of many other proteins and enzymes. Your body needs the right amount of iron. If you have too little iron, you may develop iron deficiency anemia. Causes of low iron levels include blood loss, poor diet, or an inability to absorb enough iron from foods. People at higher risk of having too little iron are young children and women who are pregnant or have periods.

Also known as: Lactate Dehydrogenase LD, LDH

Ld

LDH isoenzymes is a test to check how much of the different types of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are in the blood. Measurement of LDH isoenzymes helps determine the location of any tissue damage. LDH is found in many body tissues such as the heart, liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, brain, blood cells, and lungs. LDH exists in 5 forms, which differ slightly in structure. LDH-1 is found primarily in heart muscle and red blood cells. LDH-2 is concentrated in white blood cells. LDH-3 is highest in the lung. LDH-4 is highest in the kidney, placenta, and pancreas. LDH-5 is highest in the liver and skeletal muscle.

Also known as: Pro Time with INR, Prothrombin Time and International Normalized Ratio, Prothrombin Time PT with INR, Prothrombin Time with INR, Protime with INR, PT

Inr

International normalized ratio (INR) - To check how well the blood-thinning medication (anticoagulant) warfarin (COUMADIN®) is working to prevent blood clots; to help detect and diagnose a bleeding disorder. Internationalized Normalized Ratio (INR) with the PT test for people who are receiving the anticoagulant warfarin (COUMADIN®).

Pt

Prothrombin time (PT) is a blood test that measures the time it takes for the liquid portion (plasma) of your blood to clot.
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The LH-2. Liver Health panel contains 9 tests with 35 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The LH-2 Liver Health panel is a comprehensive suite of tests designed to evaluate liver function, identify liver damage, and screen for specific liver disorders. This panel includes Quantitative Alpha-1-Antitrypsin, Alpha-Fetoprotein and AFP-L3, Fractionated Bilirubin (Direct, Indirect, and Total), Ceruloplasmin, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Gamma Glutamyl Transferase, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, Lactate Dehydrogenase, and Prothrombin Time with INR. Each of these tests offers valuable insights into liver health, potential liver disease, and the liver's capacity to perform its vital functions.

Collection Method: Blood draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood and Serum

Test Preparation: Patient should be fasting for at least 9 hours prior to collection. Specimen collection should be done in the morning.

When and Why the LH-2 Liver Health Panel May Be Ordered

Healthcare providers may order the LH-2 panel for individuals showing symptoms of liver disease, such as jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, or fatigue. It's also recommended for patients with a history of liver disease, those exposed to liver-damaging substances, or individuals with a family history of liver disorders. This panel aids in diagnosing liver conditions, monitoring the progression of existing liver disease, and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment.

What the LH-2 Liver Health Panel Checks For

  • Quantitative Alpha-1-Antitrypsin: Measures the level of alpha-1-antitrypsin, a protein that protects the lungs and liver from damage. Low levels may indicate Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, a genetic disorder.
  • Alpha-Fetoprotein and AFP-L3: Used as tumor markers to help detect and monitor liver cancer. The AFP-L3 fraction is particularly associated with hepatocellular carcinoma.
  • Fractionated Bilirubin (Direct, Indirect, and Total): Bilirubin levels can indicate liver's ability to process waste; high levels may suggest liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction.
  • Ceruloplasmin: Low levels of this copper-binding protein can be associated with Wilson's disease, a rare genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism.
  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: Includes tests for liver enzymes, kidney function, and electrolytes, providing an overview of metabolic health and liver status.
  • Gamma Glutamyl Transferase: An enzyme that, when elevated, can indicate liver or bile duct damage.
  • Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity: These tests evaluate body's iron stores and can indicate conditions like hemochromatosis, which can lead to liver damage.
  • Lactate Dehydrogenase: An enzyme that, when elevated, can suggest tissue damage, including liver damage.
  • Prothrombin Time with INR: Assesses blood clotting time and liver's ability to produce clotting factors.

Conditions and Diseases Detected by the LH-2 Liver Health Panel

This panel can aid in diagnosing and managing several liver-related conditions:

  • Liver Cirrhosis and Fibrosis: Indicated by abnormal liver enzyme levels, altered bilirubin levels, and coagulation issues.
  • Liver Cancer: Elevated Alpha-Fetoprotein and specific fractions like AFP-L3 can suggest hepatocellular carcinoma.
  • Wilson's Disease: Suspected with low ceruloplasmin and altered copper metabolism.
  • Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: Low alpha-1-antitrypsin levels can indicate this genetic disorder, which can lead to liver disease.
  • Hemochromatosis: High iron levels and saturation can suggest this condition, leading to liver damage over time.

Using the LH-2 Liver Health Panel Results in Clinical Practice

Healthcare professionals utilize LH-2 panel results to:

  • Diagnose Liver Diseases: Identifying specific patterns in test results can help pinpoint liver conditions such as cirrhosis, cancer, or genetic disorders.
  • Monitor Disease Progression: Tracking changes in test results over time can indicate the progression or improvement of liver disease.
  • Guide Treatment Decisions: Information from the panel can help tailor treatments to manage liver disease effectively, including medication adjustments and lifestyle changes.

Expanding Insights with LH-3 and LH-4 Liver Health Panels

For a more in-depth liver health assessment, consider the LH-3 and LH-4 Liver Health panels:

  • LH-3 Panel: Adds tests for Copper, and a comprehensive set of hepatitis markers, providing crucial information on infectious liver diseases and further insights into metabolic liver disorders.
  • LH-4 Panel: Builds on LH-3 by including Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin for enhanced liver cancer screening and Quantitative Hepatitis C Viral RNA Real-Time PCR for detailed hepatitis C viral load analysis.

The LH-2 Liver Health panel offers a broad perspective on liver health, enabling the detection, monitoring, and management of liver diseases. It serves as a critical tool for healthcare providers in diagnosing liver conditions, assessing liver function, and guiding treatment decisions. For patients and physicians seeking an even more comprehensive liver health assessment, the LH-3 and LH-4 panels provide additional markers and tests to cover a wider spectrum of liver health concerns.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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