Hepatic Panel

The hepatic panel, often referred to as a “liver function test” or “LFT,” is a group of tests that provide information about the state of a patient’s liver. The panel measures levels of several enzymes, proteins, and substances that are produced or excreted by the liver and can give clues about its health and function.

Here are the main components of a hepatic panel:

1. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): An enzyme found mostly in the liver. Elevated levels suggest liver damage.
2. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): An enzyme found in the liver and a few other places, particularly the heart and muscles. Like ALT, elevated levels can indicate liver damage, but the AST/ALT ratio can also provide some hints about the type of liver damage.
3. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): An enzyme related to the bile ducts but also found in other parts of the body. High levels can indicate liver damage or bile duct obstructions.
4. Total Bilirubin and Direct Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver processes it and releases it into the bile. Elevated levels can indicate liver dysfunction or other conditions.
5. Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): An enzyme found in the liver, elevated GGT can indicate liver damage or excess alcohol intake.
6. Albumin: A protein made by the liver, it helps keep fluid in the bloodstream. Low levels can suggest liver disease or other medical conditions.
7. Total Protein: This measures albumin and all other proteins in blood, including antibodies.

Indications for a Hepatic Panel:

1. Symptoms of Liver Disease: Jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), dark urine, light-colored stools, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, swelling, and unexplained fatigue.
2. Monitoring Patients with Known Liver Diseases: Chronic hepatitis B or C, alcoholic liver disease, fatty liver, cirrhosis, etc.
3. Potential Liver Damage: If someone has taken a medication that might harm the liver or if they’ve been exposed to possible liver toxins.
4. Medical Conditions: Hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, or other genetic conditions that affect the liver.
5. Regular Monitoring: For people who consume significant amounts of alcohol or are on certain medications that might impact the liver.
6. Pre-operative Workup: As part of the assessment before certain surgeries.
7. Physical Exam Findings: Enlarged liver, unexplained splenomegaly, or other clinical findings that suggest liver disease.

It’s essential to interpret the results of a hepatic panel in the context of clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Abnormal results might require further evaluations like imaging studies or even a liver biopsy. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for a correct interpretation of test results