What is hepatitis A and how does it affect the liver. How is hepatitis A transmitted and who is at risk. What are the symptoms of hepatitis A and how is it diagnosed. How can hepatitis A be prevented and treated.

Understanding Hepatitis A: An Overview of Liver Inflammation

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. This inflammation can lead to swelling and potential damage to liver tissues, affecting the organ’s ability to function properly. Unlike other forms of viral hepatitis, hepatitis A is typically an acute, short-term infection, with most people recovering without treatment within a few weeks.

The hepatitis A virus (HAV) is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, meaning that it spreads through contact with the stool of an infected person. This transmission can occur in various ways, including consuming contaminated food or water, close personal contact with an infected individual, or engaging in certain sexual practices.

The Hepatitis A Virus: Causes and Transmission

The hepatitis A virus is the primary cause of this liver infection. Understanding how the virus spreads is crucial for prevention and control. Here are the main ways hepatitis A can be transmitted:

• Consuming food prepared by an infected person who didn’t properly wash their hands after using the bathroom
• Drinking contaminated water or eating foods rinsed with contaminated water
• Close personal contact with an infected individual, including certain types of sexual activity (e.g., oral-anal sex)
• Caring for someone who is ill with hepatitis A
• Using illegal drugs with others, particularly if proper hygiene is not maintained

Can hepatitis A spread through casual contact? No, hepatitis A does not spread through casual contact such as hugging, shaking hands, or sitting next to an infected person. The virus requires direct contact with contaminated fecal matter or consumption of contaminated food or water.

Risk Factors: Who Is Most Susceptible to Hepatitis A?

While anyone can contract hepatitis A, certain factors increase the risk of infection. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take appropriate precautions and seek medical attention when necessary.

High-Risk Groups for Hepatitis A

1. Travelers to regions with high rates of hepatitis A
2. Men who have sex with men
3. People who use illegal drugs (both injection and non-injection)
4. Individuals with chronic liver disease
5. People with clotting-factor disorders
6. Household members or caregivers of adopted children from countries with high hepatitis A rates

Are certain occupations at higher risk for hepatitis A? Yes, individuals working in certain fields may have an increased risk of exposure to the hepatitis A virus. These occupations include:

• Childcare workers, particularly those changing diapers or toilet training children
• Healthcare workers in close contact with infected patients
• Sewage workers and plumbers who may be exposed to contaminated water
• Food handlers, especially if proper hygiene practices are not strictly followed

Recognizing Hepatitis A: Signs and Symptoms

Identifying the symptoms of hepatitis A is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. However, it’s important to note that not all infected individuals will display symptoms, particularly young children.

When symptoms do appear, they typically develop 2-6 weeks after exposure to the virus. Common signs and symptoms of hepatitis A include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Clay-colored bowel movements
• Loss of appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Dark urine
• Joint pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Do symptoms of hepatitis A differ in children and adults? Generally, children under 6 years old often don’t show symptoms or have mild, unrecognized infections. Adults are more likely to experience noticeable symptoms, with the severity typically increasing with age.

Diagnosing Hepatitis A: Tests and Procedures

Accurate diagnosis of hepatitis A is essential for proper treatment and prevention of further spread. Healthcare providers use a combination of methods to diagnose the infection:

1. Physical Examination

A doctor will perform a physical exam, looking for signs such as jaundice, liver tenderness, or abdominal swelling.

2. Medical History

The healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, potential exposure to the virus, and risk factors.

3. Blood Tests

Several blood tests can help diagnose hepatitis A:

• Liver Function Tests: These assess how well the liver is working and can indicate liver damage.
• Hepatitis A Antibody Test: This test detects antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the hepatitis A virus.
• Hepatitis A Virus RNA Test: In some cases, this test may be used to detect the genetic material of the virus itself.

How long after exposure can hepatitis A be detected in blood tests? Hepatitis A antibodies typically appear in the blood 2-3 weeks after infection. However, the virus can be detected in the blood and stool as early as 1-2 weeks after exposure, before symptoms appear.

Prevention Strategies: Protecting Against Hepatitis A

Preventing hepatitis A involves a combination of personal hygiene practices, vaccination, and public health measures. Here are key strategies for protection:

1. Vaccination

The hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection. It’s recommended for:

• All children at age 1 year
• Travelers to countries with high rates of hepatitis A
• Men who have sex with men
• People who use drugs
• People with chronic liver diseases
• People who are homeless

2. Proper Hygiene

Practicing good hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of hepatitis A:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food
• Avoid consuming raw or undercooked shellfish
• Drink bottled or boiled water when traveling to areas with poor sanitation

3. Safe Food Handling

Proper food handling practices can significantly reduce the risk of hepatitis A transmission:

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption
• Cook shellfish until thoroughly done
• Avoid consuming unpasteurized dairy products

Is there a post-exposure prevention option for hepatitis A? Yes, if you’ve been exposed to hepatitis A and haven’t been vaccinated, you can receive either the hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin within two weeks of exposure. This can help prevent or reduce the severity of the infection.

Treatment Options for Hepatitis A

Unlike some other forms of viral hepatitis, hepatitis A typically doesn’t require specific medical treatment. Most people recover completely with rest and supportive care. However, managing symptoms and preventing complications are important aspects of care.

Supportive Care

The primary focus of treatment is on supportive care, which includes:

• Rest: Allowing the body time to fight the infection
• Adequate hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
• Proper nutrition: Eating a balanced diet to support liver function
• Avoiding alcohol and certain medications: To prevent further liver stress

Symptom Management

Healthcare providers may recommend over-the-counter medications to manage specific symptoms:

• Pain relievers for fever and body aches (avoiding acetaminophen, which can stress the liver)
• Anti-nausea medications to combat vomiting and improve appetite

Are there any specific medications used to treat hepatitis A? Unlike hepatitis B and C, there are no antiviral medications specifically used to treat hepatitis A. The infection is usually self-limiting, meaning it resolves on its own without specific treatment.

Monitoring and Follow-up

Regular monitoring is important during recovery from hepatitis A:

• Liver function tests to track the healing process
• Follow-up appointments to ensure complete recovery
• Screening for potential complications, although these are rare in hepatitis A

Global Impact: Hepatitis A in Public Health

Hepatitis A remains a significant public health concern, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Understanding the global impact of this disease is crucial for developing effective prevention and control strategies.

Epidemiology

The prevalence of hepatitis A varies greatly across different regions:

• High endemicity: Parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America
• Intermediate endemicity: Eastern Europe, Middle East
• Low endemicity: North America, Western Europe, Australia

How has the global prevalence of hepatitis A changed over time? With improved sanitation and widespread vaccination programs, many countries have seen a significant decrease in hepatitis A cases over the past few decades. However, the virus remains endemic in many developing regions.

Economic Impact

Hepatitis A can have substantial economic consequences:

• Healthcare costs for treating infected individuals
• Lost productivity due to illness
• Impact on tourism and food industries in affected areas

Public Health Initiatives

Various public health strategies are employed globally to combat hepatitis A:

• Vaccination programs, particularly for children and high-risk groups
• Improved sanitation and access to clean water
• Public education on hygiene and food safety
• Surveillance and outbreak response systems

What role do international organizations play in hepatitis A control? Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) play crucial roles in global hepatitis A control. They provide guidance on vaccination strategies, conduct surveillance, and support research efforts to better understand and combat the disease.

Living with Hepatitis A: Recovery and Long-term Outlook

While hepatitis A is typically a self-limiting disease, the recovery process and long-term outlook are important considerations for those affected by the virus.

Recovery Process

Most people with hepatitis A recover completely within a few months. The recovery process typically involves:

• Gradual improvement of symptoms over several weeks
• Return of normal liver function, as evidenced by blood tests
• Regaining strength and energy levels

Long-term Prognosis

The long-term outlook for hepatitis A is generally excellent:

• No chronic or long-lasting liver damage in most cases
• Development of lifelong immunity against the hepatitis A virus
• Rare occurrence of complications or severe cases

Can hepatitis A recur after recovery? No, once a person recovers from hepatitis A, they develop lifelong immunity and cannot be infected with the virus again. This is different from some other forms of viral hepatitis that can become chronic.

Lifestyle Considerations During and After Recovery

During recovery and in the long term, certain lifestyle adjustments may be beneficial:

• Maintaining a healthy diet to support liver function
• Avoiding alcohol and certain medications that can stress the liver
• Regular check-ups to monitor liver health
• Practicing good hygiene to prevent transmission to others during the infectious period

Psychological Impact

The psychological aspects of dealing with hepatitis A should not be overlooked:

• Coping with the initial diagnosis and symptoms
• Dealing with potential stigma associated with the infection
• Anxiety about potential transmission to family members or close contacts

Support groups and counseling services can be valuable resources for individuals dealing with the emotional aspects of hepatitis A.

Future Perspectives: Research and Developments in Hepatitis A

While hepatitis A is well-understood and preventable, ongoing research continues to enhance our knowledge and improve strategies for control and prevention.

Vaccine Development

Current research in vaccine development focuses on:

• Improving vaccine efficacy and duration of protection
• Developing combination vaccines that protect against multiple hepatitis viruses
• Exploring new vaccine delivery methods for easier administration

Diagnostic Advancements

Efforts are underway to enhance diagnostic capabilities:

• Developing rapid, point-of-care tests for quicker diagnosis
• Improving the sensitivity and specificity of existing diagnostic methods
• Creating new tools for epidemiological surveillance

How might future diagnostic tools impact hepatitis A management? Advanced diagnostic tools could lead to earlier detection, faster response to outbreaks, and more targeted prevention strategies, ultimately reducing the global burden of hepatitis A.

Treatment Research

While hepatitis A typically doesn’t require specific treatment, research continues in areas that could benefit severe cases:

• Investigating antiviral therapies for severe or prolonged infections
• Exploring liver support techniques for acute liver failure cases
• Studying the potential of immunomodulatory therapies

Global Eradication Efforts

Some researchers and public health experts are exploring the possibility of global hepatitis A eradication:

• Assessing the feasibility of worldwide elimination
• Developing strategies for reaching underserved populations
• Studying the long-term impact of universal vaccination programs

Is global eradication of hepatitis A possible? While challenging, some experts believe that global eradication of hepatitis A could be achievable with widespread vaccination, improved sanitation, and coordinated international efforts. However, this would require significant resources and global cooperation.

As research progresses, our understanding of hepatitis A continues to evolve, leading to improved prevention strategies, better management of infections, and potentially, a future where this disease is no longer a significant public health concern.

Hepatitis A | HAV | MedlinePlus

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What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. Inflammation is swelling that happens when tissues of the body are injured or infected. It can damage your liver. This swelling and damage can affect how well your liver functions.

What is hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a type of viral hepatitis. It causes an acute, or short-term, infection. This means that people usually get better without treatment after a few weeks.

Thanks to a vaccine, hepatitis A is not very common in the United States.

What causes hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus. The virus spreads through contact with an infected person’s stool. This can happen if you:

• Eat food made by someone who has the virus and did not properly wash their hands after using the bathroom
• Drink contaminated water or eat foods that were rinsed with contaminated water
• Have close personal contact with someone who has hepatitis A. This could be through certain types of sex (like oral-anal sex), taking care of someone who is ill, or using illegal drugs with others.

Who is at risk for hepatitis A?

Although anyone can get hepatitis A, you are at higher risk if you:

• Travel to developing countries
• Have sex with someone who has hepatitis A
• Are a man who has sex with men
• Use illegal drugs
• Are experiencing homelessness
• Live with or care for someone who has hepatitis A
• Live with or care for a child recently adopted from a country where hepatitis A is common

What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?

Not everyone with hepatitis A has symptoms. Adults are more likely to have symptoms than children. If you do have symptoms, they usually start 2 to 7 weeks after infection. They can include:

• Dark yellow urine
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Gray- or clay-colored stools
• Joint pain
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Yellowish eyes and skin, called jaundice

The symptoms usually last less than 2 months, although some people can be ill for as long as 6 months.

You are at a higher risk of getting a more severe infection from hepatitis A if you also have HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C.

What other problems can hepatitis A cause?

In rare cases, hepatitis A may lead to liver failure. This is more common in adults over age 50 and in people who have another liver.

How is hepatitis A diagnosed?

To diagnose hepatitis A, your health care provider may use many tools:

• A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms
• A physical exam
• Blood tests, including tests for viral hepatitis

What are the treatments for hepatitis A?

There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. The best way to recover is to rest, drink plenty of liquids, and eat healthy foods. Your provider may also suggest medicines to help relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, you may need care in a hospital.

Can hepatitis A be prevented?

The best way to prevent hepatitis A is to get the hepatitis A vaccine. It is also important to have good hygiene, especially washing your hands thoroughly after you go to the bathroom.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

• Hepatitis A

  (American Academy of Family Physicians)

  Also in Spanish

• Hepatitis A

  (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)

• Hepatitis A

  (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)

  Also in Spanish

• Hepatitis A Vaccine: What You Need to Know

  (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

  – PDF

  Also in Spanish

• Hepatitis A: Questions and Answers

  (Immunization Action Coalition)

  – PDF

• Vaccine (Shot) for Hepatitis A

  (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

  Also in Spanish

• Hepatitis A FAQs

  (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

• Travelers’ Health: Hepatitis A

  (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

• FastStats: Viral Hepatitis

  (National Center for Health Statistics)

• Viral Hepatitis Surveillance Report: United States, 2020

  (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

• ClinicalTrials. gov: Hepatitis A

  (National Institutes of Health)

• Article: Spatial behavior of hepatitis A, MMR, and varicella vaccination coverage in. ..

• Article: World Hepatitis day 2021 -screening and vaccination against Hepatitis B virus…

• Article: Hepatitis A seroprevalence, vaccination status and demographic determinants in children and. ..

• Hepatitis A — see more articles

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

  Also in Spanish

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

• Hepatitis

  (Nemours Foundation)

  Also in Spanish

• Hepatitis A

  (American Academy of Pediatrics)

  Also in Spanish

• Hepatitis

  (Nemours Foundation)

  Also in Spanish

• Protect Yourself against Hepatitis A and B: A Guide for Gay and Bisexual Men

  (Immunization Action Coalition)

  – PDF

  Also in Spanish

Liver Panel Test – Testing.

com

Test Quick Guide

A liver panel is a test with multiple measurements that help assess the health and function of the liver. The test is conducted with a blood sample that is normally taken from a vein in your arm.

A liver panel can be used to help diagnose and monitor liver diseases. It can also provide information about other health conditions that affect the liver, such as viral or alcoholic hepatitis. If you are taking medications that can impact the liver, the test results can determine whether side effects are occurring.

About the Test

Purpose of the test

The liver panel has many applications in medical care. While sometimes called a liver function test, it is better understood as a method of detecting liver disease and/or other health problems, including many that involve the liver.

Some of the specific ways that a liver panel can be used include:

• Diagnosis: Although a liver panel alone is not able to diagnose liver diseases, its measurements can help identify the type of problem if you have symptoms of liver conditions. The test can also help in the diagnostic process of other health concerns.
• Evaluating disease severity: A liver panel can help determine the extent of illness if you have known liver problems.
• Screening: You may have a liver panel as part of broader blood testing, known as the comprehensive metabolic panel, during routine medical checkups. If screening is abnormal, it may warrant more specific follow-up testing.
• Monitoring: Follow-up testing can provide information about how well treatment for liver problems is working. A liver panel can also monitor for side effects when you take medications that can impact liver health.

What does the test measure?

As a panel test, the liver panel involves multiple measurements. When the test is ordered, doctors can modify exactly which measurements to take.

For this reason, there is not a universal standard for what is measured on a liver panel. Nevertheless, some components of the test are more common. In most cases, a liver panel includes the following measurements:

• Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): This is a type of protein called an enzyme that is found in the liver as well as many muscles and organs.
• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): This is an enzyme found primarily in the liver.
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): This is an enzyme found in the liver, bones, and other tissues in the body.
• Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow-colored waste product that is the result of the normal breakdown of red blood cells. The liver works to remove bilirubin from the body.
• Albumin: Albumin is the most abundant protein in the blood and is made by the liver which prevents fluids from leaking out of the bloodstream.

Additional measurements may be added to a liver panel if the doctor believes they can provide more information to evaluate your situation. These measures may be tested on an initial liver panel, or included in repeat testing after an abnormal result on a previous test.

• Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT): An enzyme found in the liver and other organs.
• 5’ nucleotidase (5’-NT): An enzyme that exists in the liver and other organs.
• Total protein: Measures the sum of all proteins in the blood.
• Globulins: A class of proteins in the blood.
• Prothrombin time: A protein made by the liver that facilitates normal blood clotting and measures how long it takes for the blood to clot.
• Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): An enzyme found in tissues throughout the body.

When should I get a liver panel?

There are many reasons you might decide to get a liver diagnostic test, or why a health care professional will order the lab test for you. This test can detect liver disease and other health problems involving the liver. You might be taking medications with liver damage as a side effect, and the test can measure whether the prescription is having a negative impact on your health. A liver panel can also be done as part of a metabolic panel during a routine medical visit.

A doctor might recommend a liver panel if you show common symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, dark-colored urine, light-colored stool, or fatigue. The tricky thing is, aside from jaundice, these symptoms can easily be written off as “something else.”

That’s why it’s really important to consult with your doctor, who can advise whether a liver panel is necessary as part of an overall medical checkup or because of specific circumstances, such as monitoring cirrhosis or medication side effects.

Finding a Liver Panel

How can I get a liver panel?

Liver panel testing is performed in a medical setting such as a clinic, hospital, doctor’s office, or lab. Your doctor may order the liver panel, or you can purchase the test online and be referred to a nearby participating lab for the sample. Most liver panel testing happens with a blood draw and laboratory analysis. But there is a type of rapid, on-site point-of-care test that can measure certain components of the liver panel. It is not comprehensive.

Can I take the test at home?

There are at-home liver panel tests that can determine liver function by screening for proteins and enzymes like albumin, globulin, ALP, ALT, and GGT. These tests use a finger-prick sample and include materials to collect and send your specimen to the lab.

You can order a liver panel from home and get tested in a lab. Or, your doctor can prescribe the liver panel.

The at-home liver panel test is focused on liver function but does not provide the comprehensive results that an expanded liver panel does. It also tests for direct bilirubin and total bilirubin (waste produced by the liver), and AST, an enzyme found in the liver and other tissues.

How much does the test cost?

If you get a liver test ordered by a doctor, your insurance policy may cover the cost of the appointment and lab analysis. There may be a copay or deductible, however. If you order the test online, you can submit the receipt for potential reimbursement. You can find affordable liver panel testing that ranges in price from $39 to $79.

Before you order your own test from a lab or arrange a doctor-ordered liver panel, ask about costs, insurances accepted, copays, and deductibles. Be sure to refer to your doctor, lab, and health plan for details on test costs and insurance coverage.

Taking a Liver Panel Test

A liver panel requires drawing blood from a vein in your arm. The procedure is routine and performed in a medical office, clinic, hospital, or lab. There are some at-home tests available that involve a skin prick, but they are not as thorough as a liver panel from a lab.

Before the test

Plan on fasting for up to 12 hours before you take a liver panel test, only drinking water during this time. Also, be sure your doctor knows what medications you are taking because some prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications or dietary supplements can interfere with the test. Your doctor will provide specific guidelines on which medications and for how long to avoid them before a liver panel blood draw.

Not all liver panels require preparation. For example, an expanded liver panel you order online and go to a lab for testing does not require fasting. The comprehensive liver panel you can order online for lab testing does require fasting for 12 to 14 hours.

For at-home finger-prick liver tests, be sure to read the instructions carefully so you know whether the preparation is required.

During the test

A routine blood draw is all that is required to perform a liver panel. With a small needle, blood is drawn from a vein in your arm into a vial and analyzed by a lab. The phlebotomist will carefully clean the area first with antiseptic, and you might feel a sting when the needle is inserted or removed. You could experience mild bruising or soreness after the test like if you were getting blood drawn for any other medical panel. The entire process takes no more than five minutes.

At-home tests require a finger prick. The kit will include a lancet or small needle. You’ll get a test strip where you apply the blood drops, and then secure it in the provided packaging to send to the lab. It takes less than a minute to gather your sample and prepare the dry blood card for the lab. Remember, test kit instructions vary, so it’s important to read all instructions before obtaining your blood sample.

After the test

There are no restrictions after getting blood drawn for a liver panel, but if you fasted for 12 to 14 hours prior to the lab test, you will probably feel weak or fatigued. Consider bringing a snack for after your test. You can return to standard activities. Other than changing an adhesive bandage, there’s little to no recovery.

Liver Panel Test Results

Receiving test results

Depending on what type of liver panel you get, you can expect test results within one to two business days for an expanded panel that measures enzymes and proteins. It many take one to two days for a comprehensive panel that assesses enzymes and proteins to determine liver function, including GGT and LD. The comprehensive panel is also called hepatic function testing.

Lab result times can vary, so ask the clinician in advance how long it will take. Even at-home tests that use a finger prick to collect a blood sample will take a few business days from the time the lab receives your sample before you get results.

The speed of results can also depend on how you get them. Labs deliver results in a number of ways, including confidential phone calls, secure emails, or via an app.

Interpreting test results

Your liver panel test results will depend on the type of test. You will see some reference ranges to understand what levels are considered abnormal. Always discuss these results with a medical professional so you can ask questions and gain a clear understanding of the report, its information, and the next steps.

There are five common measures your liver panel test results will reveal.

• Bilirubin: Total bilirubin will show whether levels are raised due to a metabolic disorder or liver disease. In infants, it can indicate whether support is needed to address a liver that is not functioning properly.
• Albumin: This protein can be a marker for liver function and reduced albumin could indicate sepsis, inflammatory disorders, and other liver problems.
• ALP: Higher levels of ALP can be found in those with liver and bone disease.
• AST and ALT: These are liver enzymes and elevation can indicate liver-related issues. ALT can be an indicator of liver cell injury.
• GGT: This is used in the diagnosis and treatment of liver disease and in the evaluation of patients with alcoholism.

When test results are abnormal, doctors often look for certain patterns of abnormalities in the specific levels that were detected.

• Conditions involving acute or chronic liver damage often show disproportionate increases in ALT and AST compared to ALP.
• Bile duct obstruction is more often associated with a disproportionate increase in ALP compared to ALT and AST.
• Disorders affecting the normal processing of bilirubin may be demonstrated by elevated bilirubin with normal levels of ALT, AST, and ALP.
• Health conditions originating outside the liver are more common when abnormal albumin or prothrombin time occurs with otherwise normal results.

Your doctor will look at these test results and take into account your health, symptoms, and medical and family history. Any drugs you take are also considered since some medications can impact test results. Liver panel results are complex, so always review results with a medical professional who understands your case and can answer your questions. Here are some to ask:

• Was any part of my test result abnormal?
• If there was an abnormal result, can you explain what was found and what it may mean?
• If results were normal, will I need to have this testing again at any point in the future?
• Are there any follow-up tests that may be beneficial given my test results?

• CMP Blood Test (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel)
  Learn More
• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)
  Learn More
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test
  Learn More
• Albumin Blood Test
  Learn More
• Total Protein, Albumin-Globulin (A/G) Ratio Test
  Learn More
• Bilirubin Test
  Learn More
• GGT Blood Test (Gamma Glutamyl Tranferase/Transpeptidase)
  Learn More
• Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test
  Learn More
• PT/INR Test (Prothrombin Time and International Normalized Ratio)
  Learn More

Resources

• National Library of Medicine: Liver Diseases
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Liver Disease
• American Liver Foundation: Diagnosing Liver Disease

Sources

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Liver tests, biochemical blood test in Kyiv

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Study code:
124

Execution time:
1-3 working days

Material:
serum

Price:

450
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by price:
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Preparation

A mandatory requirement is the mode of complete refusal of food on the day of blood donation for analysis (in the evening of the previous day, a light dinner is recommended). When donating venous blood, it is necessary to exclude factors that affect the results of the research: physical stress (running, climbing stairs), emotional arousal. Therefore, before the procedure, you should rest for 10-15 minutes in the waiting room, calm down. You should not donate blood after exposure to X-rays (“X-ray”), physiotherapy procedures. Taking into account the daily rhythms of changes in blood parameters, it is advisable to take samples for repeated examinations at the same time .

Research is accepted from Monday to Saturday, in all branches of the Dneprolab CLD in Kyiv.

Description

Liver tests – a biochemical study of blood, which includes the quantitative determination of the level of certain enzymes and the concentration of organic substances. Indicators that assess the functional and structural state of the liver and hepatobiliary system (including the gallbladder and biliary tract) include:

• Activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymes.
• Activity of alkaline phosphatase (AP) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) enzymes.
• The level of bilirubin in the blood, including its fractions (direct and indirect bilirubin).
• The level of total protein in the blood.

Thanks to these indicators, it is possible to determine the degree of damage to hepatocytes (liver cells) by a pathological process, the state of its excretory and synthetic functions.

Liver tests are included in the standard blood chemistry test along with kidney tests.

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Ukraine, Kiev, Vyshgorodskaya street, 21

st. Vyshgorodskaya, 21

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Ukraine, Kyiv, st. Peter Zaporozhets, 26

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Ukraine, Cherkasy, 30th anniversary of the Victory 16

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Ukraine, Brovary, st. Gagarina, 20b

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Ukraine, Kiev, Bazhana Avenue, 12

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Ukraine, Kyiv, st. Kurnatovsky, 7

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Ukraine, Kiev, Mayakovskogo Avenue, 20

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Ukraine, Kiev, st. Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky, 5

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Ukraine, Kiev, st. Yakubovsky, 6

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Ukraine, Kiev, 27 Geroev Stalingrad Ave.

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viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Fastov, st. L. Tolstoy, 28

Fastov, Heroes of Chernobyl, 24 (Tolstoy, 24)

Phones:

(04565) 5-14-08

(044) 29-099-29

Schedule:

Ukraine, Cherkasy, Chernovola 1

Cherkasy, Chernovola 1

Phones:

(073)056-59-27

(044)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, st. Velyka Zhitomirskaya, 14

Velyka Zhitomirskaya, 14

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

viber (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, Koltsov boulevard, 14Zh

Koltsov boulevard, 14Zh

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kyiv, st. Dekabristov, 5

Brotherhood of Tarasovtsy, 5 (Dekembrists, 5)

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kyiv, st. Kharkiv highway, 56

Kharkov highway, 56

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Sofievskaya Borshchagovka, st. Voloshkova, 30

Voloshkova, 30, Sofiyivska Borshchagovka

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, Trostyanetskaya, 8D

Trostyanetskaya, 8D (children’s nurse)

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

viber (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kyiv, st. Zakrevskogo, 42A

Zakrevskogo, 42A

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber: (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Chernihiv, Rokossovsky street, 49

Chernihiv, Levko Lukyanenko avenue, 49 (Rokosovsky 49)

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, ave. Pavla Tychyny, 3

Tychyny, 3

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

(095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Chernihiv, Mazepy street, 4

Chernihiv Mazepa, 4

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Fastov, Kommunalny lane, 7A

Fastov, Kommunalny lane, 7A

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

(095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Cherkasy, st. Baydy Vyshnevetsky 36/1

Cherkasy, st. Baidy Vishnevetsky 36/1

Phones:

(073)750-16-08

(044)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, Petra Zaporozhtsa, 26A

Petra Zaporozhtsa, 26A

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

Viber (095) 29-099-29

Schedule:

Ukraine, Kiev, Yaltinskaya street, 8

Yaltinskaya street, 8

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, st. Garmatnaya, 37A

Garmatnaya, 37A

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

viber (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, p. Hatne, st. Optimistic, 1,

st. Optimistic, 1, p. Hatnoe

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

viber (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, Piterskaya street, 16

Londonskaya, 16 (Piterskaya, 16)

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

viber (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Fastov, st. Shevchenko 53B

Fastov, Shevchenko, 53B

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

viber (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Kiev, street Enthusiasts, 47

st. Enthusiastov, 47

Phones:

(044)29-099-29

viber (095)29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, p. Kryukovshchina, st. Kyiv, 37

s. Kryukovshchina

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Chernihiv, 1 May st., 172

Chernihiv, 172 Grushevskogo ave.
Phones:

0 800 50 19 29

Working hours:

Ukraine, Vishnevoe, Svyatoshinskaya street, 27

Vishnevoe

Phones:

(044) 29-099-29

viber (095) 29-099-29

Working hours:

Liver tests up to 50% off

Description of analysis

Liver tests are a set of tests that evaluate damage to cells in the liver and biliary tract. The liver is a vital gland of the body that performs several thousand different functions.

The complex is recommended at any age in case of suspected damage and inflammation of the liver, before and against the background of taking hepatotoxic drugs, to control the treatment of liver diseases, cholelithiasis. Also, the complex is suitable for the initial assessment of the state of the liver against the background of diseases of other organs, for example, kidneys, stomach, intestines, diabetes mellitus, rheumatological diseases, parasitic infections.

In the absence of complaints, this complex is recommended prophylactically, as part of an annual laboratory examination, especially against the background of gallbladder dyskinesia, chronic gastrointestinal diseases, and taking dietary supplements.

Research material
— Blood serum

includes 5 studies

• Enzyme of liver cells, increases when damaged

• Enzyme of liver and muscle cells, increases when they are damaged

• A pigment formed during the breakdown of blood cells indicates an increase in blood breakdown or a violation of the liver and biliary tract

• Liver, biliary tract and pancreas cell enzyme

• Enzyme of cells of the biliary tract and bones, increases when they are damaged

Order other complexes suitable for you

if the analyzes are repeated, the price of the complex will decrease by their cost

• Current complex

  Liver tests – 5 tests

• Another

  Liver function, complex of analyzes (liver tests) – 8 studies

• Another

  Annual examination (complex of analyzes) – 16 examinations

How to prepare

In advance

Do not take a blood test immediately after X-ray, fluorography, ultrasound, physiotherapy.

The day before

24 hours before blood sampling:

• Limit fatty and fried foods, do not take alcohol.

• Avoid strenuous exercise.

From 8 to 14 hours before donating blood, do not eat, drink only clean still water.

On the day of donation

Before blood sampling

• No smoking for 60 minutes,
• 15-30 minutes to be in a calm state.

Result

• Electronic result

  At the post office and in your personal account when ready

  View example

• Expert interpretation of results

  Transcription created based on our expert algorithms, medical and statistical data. She will talk about each analysis separately and, most importantly, how they affect each other. All analyzes of the complex are grouped by organs, diseases or processes.

  We will decipher your tests if you are not pregnant, you are over 18 years old, you do not have chronic diseases and all the results of the analyzes of the complex are completed. We may refuse to decrypt at our discretion with a refund.

  We will send the transcript within 1 day after the analysis is ready, excluding Saturday and Sunday.

• Doctor’s consultation

  Online consultation based on test results and a questionnaire that you fill out in advance. It will be available to order in 2024.

  See example

Liver tests

Comprehensive screening study, including the study of bilirubin and its fractions and the activity of liver enzymes: ALT, AST, GGTP, alkaline phosphatase. Allows you to suspect a disease of the liver and / or biliary tract.

Depending on the cause of liver damage, its various functions may suffer.

Pay attention to symptoms that are suspicious of possible damage to the liver and bile ducts:

• pain or discomfort in the right hypochondrium,
• nausea, loss of appetite,
• dark urine,
• discoloration of feces,
• the appearance of icteric coloration of the skin, sclera,
• the appearance of edema, increased bleeding, fatigue.

Many types of metabolism take place in the liver cells. Protein metabolism involves enzymes of liver cells (hepatocytes), called transaminases (ALT and AST). An increase in transaminases in the blood can be observed during cytolysis (destruction) of hepatocytes. An increase in ALT often indicates liver damage, while an increase in AST can also be observed with muscle damage, myocardial infarction, hemolysis of red blood cells. In acute viral hepatitis, the levels of enzymes exceed the upper limit of the norm by 5-10 times, and in chronic hepatitis by 1.5-2 times, increasing approximately the same. In alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver metastases, there is a predominant increase in AST.

The biliary function of the liver and biliary tract is assessed by the enzymes alkaline phosphatase (AP) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP). In the case of their simultaneous increase, first of all, obstruction (blockage) of the biliary tract is excluded, for example, with cholelithiasis. High levels of GGTP are characteristic of cirrhosis and liver metastases. A moderate increase in GGTP (2-5 times) is observed in viral hepatitis. Unlike GGTP, alkaline phosphatase also increases in diseases of the bones and intestines.

For hepatic jaundice and obstruction of the biliary tract, the increase in total bilirubin is also typical more due to the direct fraction. With hemolysis of erythrocytes, an increase in the indirect fraction of bilirubin is expressed.