Ammonia levels in a cirrhotic patient. When the liver has been damaged by cirrhosis, it may not be able to filter toxins from the bloodstream, especially substances in the blood produced by bacteria in the large intestine therefore, causing high ammonia levels. High levels may cause disorientation and decrease alertness therefore; neurological checks may need to be done in some instances. A total serum protein test measures the total amount of protein in the blood. …show more content…
It also measures the amounts of two major groups of proteins in the blood: albumin and globulin. Albumin is mainly synthesized in the liver. It helps keep the blood from leaking out of blood vessels. Albumin also assists in transporting certain medicines and other substances through the blood and it crucial for tissue growth and healing. Globulin is made up of different proteins called alpha, beta, and gamma types. Some globulins are produced by the liver, while others are made by the immune system. Certain globulins bind with hemoglobin, while other globulins transport metals, such as iron, in the blood and help fight infection. Albumin checks how well the liver and kidneys are working, denotes if your diet contains enough protein, and can trace the cause of edema. A bilirubin test measures the amount of bilirubin in a blood sample. Bilirubin is a brownish yellow substance found in bile. It is produced when the liver breaks down old, worn erythrocytes. Bilirubin is then removed from the body through the stool (feces) and gives stool its normal color. The bilirubin test is used to check liver function and flags down signs of liver disease. You may have blood tests to check your liver enzymes. …show more content…
These can help show whether you have had liver inflammation for a long time. These blood tests include an aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and it tests the amount of this enzyme in the blood. The amount of AST in the blood is directly related to the extent of the tissue damage. This test helps identify liver disease or the success of treatment. A test for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is done to check for liver disease or damage to the liver. Symptoms of liver disease can include jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. An ALP test may also be used to check the liver when medicines that can damage the liver are taken. Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), an increased level can happen because of alcohol use or diseases of the bile ducts. However, some people with cirrhosis can have normal liver enzymes. Blood alcohol level tests can also be done because it can determine alcoholic cirrhosis. Imaging tests may be carried out to detect the liver’s condition, position, and circulation. An ultrasound uses reflective sound waves to project an image of the organs and other structures in the abdominal cavity. An ultrasound may be done to evaluate jaundice and other problems of the liver. A computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to make detailed radiographs