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Renal Function Test

by | May 11, 2024 | BIOCHEMISTRY

Renal function tests are a group of laboratory tests used to assess the function of the kidneys and detect any abnormalities in their structure or function. These tests provide valuable information about the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products from the blood, regulate electrolyte balance, and maintain fluid and acid-base balance. Here are some common renal function tests:

  1. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN):
    • BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood, which is a waste product of protein metabolism excreted by the kidneys.
    • Normal range: 7-20 mg/dL (2.5-7.1 mmol/L)
    • Elevated levels may indicate impaired kidney function, dehydration, or other medical conditions affecting the kidneys.
  2. Serum Creatinine:
    • Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is excreted by the kidneys.
    • Serum creatinine levels are used as a marker of kidney function, with higher levels indicating reduced kidney function or kidney disease.
    • Normal range: 0.6-1.2 mg/dL (53-106 μmol/L) for adults
    • Elevated creatinine levels may indicate acute or chronic kidney disease, dehydration, or other medical conditions affecting kidney function.
  3. Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR):
    • eGFR is a calculated value based on serum creatinine levels, age, gender, and race, and it estimates the rate at which the kidneys filter waste products from the blood.
    • eGFR is used to assess overall kidney function, with lower values indicating decreased kidney function.
    • Normal range: >90 mL/min/1.73m²
    • A decrease in eGFR may indicate reduced kidney function or kidney disease.
  4. Creatinine Clearance:
    • Creatinine clearance is a measure of the rate at which the kidneys filter creatinine from the blood and excrete it in the urine.
    • Creatinine clearance is calculated based on serum creatinine levels, urine creatinine concentration, and urine volume collected over a specified period.
    • Creatinine clearance is used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and assess kidney function.
    • Normal range: 90-140 mL/min for men, 80-125 mL/min for women
  5. Urinalysis:
    • Urinalysis involves the physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of urine to assess kidney function and detect abnormalities.
    • Urinalysis can provide information about urine concentration, pH, specific gravity, protein, glucose, ketones, blood, bilirubin, and sediment (e.g., red blood cells, white blood cells, casts).
    • Abnormal findings on urinalysis may indicate kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or other medical conditions affecting the kidneys.
  6. Electrolytes:
    • Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate are measured in blood tests and can provide information about kidney function and acid-base balance.
    • Abnormal electrolyte levels may indicate electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, kidney disease, or other medical conditions affecting kidney function.
  7. Proteinuria:
    • Proteinuria is the presence of excess protein in the urine and is a common sign of kidney disease.
    • Proteinuria can be detected using urine dipstick testing or by measuring protein-to-creatinine ratio (PCR) or albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) in a urine sample.
    • Persistent proteinuria may indicate kidney damage or dysfunction.

Normal Value

by | Apr 28, 2024 | BIOCHEMISTRY

Normal Value

 

Normal values for laboratory biochemistry tests can vary slightly depending on the specific laboratory and the testing methods used. However, here are common reference ranges for some key biochemical parameters measured in blood:

  1. Glucose:
    • Fasting Blood Glucose: 70-100 mg/dL (3.9-5.6 mmol/L)
    • Random Blood Glucose: <140 mg/dL (<7.8 mmol/L)
  2. Lipids:
    • Total Cholesterol: <200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L)
    • Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol: <100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L)
    • High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol: >40 mg/dL for men, >50 mg/dL for women (1.0-1.3 mmol/L)
    • Triglycerides: <150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L)
  3. Liver Function Tests:
    • Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT): 7-56 U/L
    • Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST or SGOT): 5-40 U/L
    • Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): 44-147 U/L
    • Total Bilirubin: 0.1-1.2 mg/dL (1.7-20.5 μmol/L)
    • Direct Bilirubin: <0.3 mg/dL (<5.1 μmol/L)
  4. Kidney Function Tests:
    • Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): 7-20 mg/dL (2.5-7.1 mmol/L)
    • Serum Creatinine: 0.6-1.2 mg/dL (53-106 μmol/L)
    • Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): >90 mL/min/1.73m²
  5. Electrolytes:
    • Sodium (Na): 135-145 mEq/L (135-145 mmol/L)
    • Potassium (K): 3.5-5.0 mEq/L (3.5-5.0 mmol/L)
    • Chloride (Cl): 98-106 mEq/L (98-106 mmol/L)
    • Bicarbonate (HCO3): 22-28 mEq/L (22-28 mmol/L)
  6. Calcium:
    • Total Calcium: 8.5-10.5 mg/dL (2.1-2.6 mmol/L)
    • Ionized Calcium: 4.5-5.3 mg/dL (1.1-1.3 mmol/L)
  7. Proteins:
    • Total Protein: 6.0-8.3 g/dL (60-83 g/L)
    • Albumin: 3.5-5.0 g/dL (35-50 g/L)
    • Globulin: 2.0-3.5 g/dL (20-35 g/L)
    • Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio: >1.0

It’s important to note that reference ranges may differ between laboratories, and results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and patient history. Additionally, age, gender, and other factors may influence normal values. Always consult with a healthcare provider for interpretation of laboratory test results.

 

  1. Glucose:
    • Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body’s cells and is derived from dietary carbohydrates.
    • Fasting blood glucose levels are typically measured after an overnight fast and are used to screen for diabetes mellitus and assess glycemic control.
    • Random blood glucose levels may be measured at any time and are used for diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes mellitus.
  2. Lipids:
    • Lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides, which are essential for cell structure, hormone production, and energy storage.
    • Total cholesterol levels reflect the amount of cholesterol in the blood, with higher levels associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
    • LDL cholesterol is considered the “bad” cholesterol because elevated levels can lead to atherosclerosis and heart disease.
    • HDL cholesterol is considered the “good” cholesterol because higher levels are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
    • Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and are used as a measure of lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk.
  3. Liver Function Tests:
    • Liver function tests measure enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels in the blood to assess liver health and function.
    • Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are enzymes found in liver cells. Elevated levels may indicate liver damage or disease.
    • Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in the liver, bones, and other tissues. Elevated levels may indicate liver or bone disease.
    • Bilirubin is a waste product produced by the breakdown of hemoglobin in the liver. Elevated levels may indicate liver dysfunction or hemolytic disorders.
  4. Kidney Function Tests:
    • Kidney function tests measure markers of kidney function, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine.
    • BUN is a waste product of protein metabolism excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration.
    • Serum creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate impaired kidney function or kidney disease.
    • Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a calculated value based on serum creatinine levels and is used to assess overall kidney function.
  5. Electrolytes:
    • Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge and are essential for various physiological functions, including nerve function, muscle contraction, and fluid balance.
    • Sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate are key electrolytes measured in blood.
    • Abnormal electrolyte levels can indicate dehydration, kidney dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, or other medical conditions.
  6. Calcium:
    • Calcium is a mineral essential for bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting.
    • Total calcium levels reflect the total amount of calcium in the blood, while ionized calcium levels represent the biologically active form of calcium.
    • Abnormal calcium levels can indicate disorders of the parathyroid glands, bones, kidneys, or other organs.
  7. Proteins:
    • Proteins are essential molecules involved in various physiological processes, including immune function, hormone transport, and tissue repair.
    • Total protein levels measure the overall concentration of proteins in the blood, including albumin and globulins.
    • Albumin is the most abundant protein in the blood and plays a critical role in maintaining oncotic pressure and transporting substances in the blood.
    • Globulins include antibodies, enzymes, and other proteins involved in immune function and blood clotting.

These laboratory biochemistry parameters provide valuable information about the body’s metabolic and physiological status and are used to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, assess organ function, and guide treatment decisions. Interpretation of test results should be done in conjunction with clinical findings and patient history to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Liver Function Test

by | Apr 28, 2024 | BIOCHEMISTRY

Liver Function Test

 

 

Liver function tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests used to assess the function and health of the liver. These tests measure various enzymes, proteins, and substances in the blood that are produced by the liver or released when liver cells are damaged or inflamed. Liver function tests help diagnose liver diseases, monitor liver function, and assess the severity of liver damage. Here are the common components of liver function tests:

  1. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT):
    • ALT is an enzyme found primarily in liver cells. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, ALT is released into the bloodstream.
    • Normal range: 7-56 U/L (values may vary slightly between laboratories)
    • Elevated ALT levels may indicate liver damage or inflammation, such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or liver injury from medications or toxins.
  2. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST):
    • AST is an enzyme found in liver cells, as well as in other organs such as the heart, kidneys, and muscles. Elevated levels of AST in the blood may indicate liver damage, but AST is less specific to the liver than ALT.
    • Normal range: 5-40 U/L (values may vary slightly between laboratories)
    • Elevated AST levels can occur in liver diseases, heart attacks, muscle injuries, and other conditions affecting the liver or other organs.
  3. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):
    • ALP is an enzyme found in bile ducts, liver cells, bones, and other tissues. Elevated ALP levels may indicate liver or bone disease.
    • Normal range: 44-147 U/L (values may vary slightly between laboratories)
    • Elevated ALP levels can occur in liver diseases, bile duct obstruction, bone disorders (e.g., Paget’s disease, bone metastases), and other conditions.
  4. Total Bilirubin:
    • Bilirubin is a waste product produced by the breakdown of hemoglobin in the liver. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or hemolytic disorders.
    • Normal range: 0.1-1.2 mg/dL (1.7-20.5 μmol/L)
    • Elevated levels of bilirubin can lead to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) and may be associated with liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
  5. Direct Bilirubin:
    • Direct bilirubin (conjugated bilirubin) is a form of bilirubin that has been processed by the liver and is excreted into bile. Elevated levels of direct bilirubin may indicate liver or bile duct disease.
    • Normal range: <0.3 mg/dL (<5.1 μmol/L)
    • Increased direct bilirubin levels can occur in conditions such as bile duct obstruction, cholestasis, or liver diseases affecting bile metabolism.
  6. Albumin:
    • Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and helps maintain oncotic pressure in the blood and transport substances such as hormones and drugs.
    • Normal range: 3.5-5.0 g/dL (35-50 g/L)
    • Decreased albumin levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, kidney disease, or other conditions affecting protein synthesis.
  7. Total Protein:
    • Total protein measures the total amount of protein in the blood, including albumin and globulins.
    • Normal range: 6.0-8.3 g/dL (60-83 g/L)
    • Abnormal total protein levels can occur in liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or other conditions affecting protein metabolism.

These liver function tests are routinely performed in clinical practice to evaluate liver function, diagnose liver diseases, monitor treatment response, and assess the severity of liver damage. Abnormal results may indicate liver dysfunction or disease and may warrant further evaluation and management by a healthcare provider or hepatologist.

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Lipid Profile

by | Apr 27, 2024 | BIOCHEMISTRY

Lipid Profile

 

A lipid profile, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile test, is a group of blood tests that measure various types of lipids (fats) and lipoproteins in the blood. Lipid profiles provide valuable information about a person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and help healthcare providers assess lipid metabolism and overall cardiovascular health. Here are the components typically included in a lipid profile:

  1. Total Cholesterol:
    • Total cholesterol measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol.
    • Normal range: <200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L)
  2. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol:
    • LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis and an increased risk of heart disease.
    • Elevated LDL cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
    • Target levels for LDL cholesterol may vary depending on an individual’s cardiovascular risk factors and health status.
    • Generally, LDL cholesterol levels should be kept below 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L) in individuals at high risk of CVD.
  3. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol:
    • HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver for excretion.
    • Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
    • Target levels for HDL cholesterol may vary, but generally, levels above 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) in men and above 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) in women are considered desirable.
  4. Triglycerides:
    • Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and stored in fat cells for energy.
    • Elevated triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, especially when combined with other lipid abnormalities.
    • Normal range: <150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L)
  5. Non-HDL Cholesterol:
    • Non-HDL cholesterol includes LDL cholesterol and other cholesterol-containing lipoproteins (VLDL cholesterol and intermediate-density lipoprotein cholesterol).
    • Non-HDL cholesterol is considered a more accurate predictor of cardiovascular risk than LDL cholesterol alone, especially in individuals with elevated triglyceride levels.
    • Target levels for non-HDL cholesterol may vary, but generally, levels should be kept below 130 mg/dL (3.4 mmol/L) in individuals at high risk of CVD.
  6. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]:
    • Lipoprotein(a) is a type of lipoprotein that contains LDL cholesterol and a protein called apolipoprotein(a).
    • Elevated levels of Lp(a) are considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, particularly for coronary artery disease and stroke.
    • There are no established target levels for Lp(a), but higher levels may warrant closer monitoring and may influence treatment decisions.

A lipid profile is typically performed after fasting for 8-12 hours to obtain accurate measurements of lipid levels. The results of a lipid profile can help healthcare providers assess an individual’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease, guide treatment decisions, and monitor the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapies, such as statins or lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet and exercise).