It is necessary to go with an empty stomach for the extraction of blood. No previous appointment is necessary, the extractions are made from 8:00h – 10:30h from Monday to Friday.
The results are delivered within 24 hours.
The liver profile is a blood test that allows us to know if the liver is working normally. Multiple values are analyzed, so the result of the analysis will allow us to determine not only if there is a malfunctioning, but also to assure the origin in order to find the diagnosis of the pathology.
- GOT, GPT and GGT also known as transaminases, are enzymes found inside the liver cells. Their level increases in case of liver inflammation, derived from high alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, or liver cancer, for example. They are also altered by a poor diet rich in simple carbohydrates and fats, and can lead to a disease called “fatty liver”.
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP). It is a protein that is usually found in the liver and bile ducts. An increase may mainly indicate a biliary obstruction, as well as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
- Total bilirubin, direct and indirect bilirubin. The liver secretes bile, a secretion that aids in the digestion of fats. Bilirubin is the yellow pigment that gives color to bile. A certain level of bilirubin is normal, however, an excess can indicate various pathologies, from anemia, cirrhosis, or liver cancer, to gallbladder problems. An excess of bilirubin gives the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes a very typical yellowish color, called jaundice. Jaundice is quite normal in newborns and usually corrects itself, but it is not normal in adults. The measurement is done in three different ways: total, direct and indirect.
- Prothrombin rate. This is the time it takes for the blood to clot. Its elevation mainly indicates biliary obstruction, cirrhosis or hepatitis.
