Lab Assessments of Liver Health: Purposes, Outcomes, and Further Info
In a significant health concern, obesity has been identified as a leading cause of liver damage due to the accumulation of fat in the liver, a condition known as Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD). This condition, primarily driven by excess body weight, is closely linked to metabolic dysfunctions such as prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol[1][2][4].
The process begins with the accumulation of fat in liver cells (hepatic steatosis). This fat buildup can trigger inflammation (hepatitis) in the form of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), which damages liver cells. High intake of fructose has also been implicated in worsening liver fat accumulation by promoting new fat production in the liver and reducing fat breakdown[3]. Genetic predispositions and other lifestyle factors like diet and exercise also play a role.
As the inflammation and liver cell injury progress, the long-term effects can be severe. Fibrosis (scarring of liver tissue), cirrhosis (extensive liver scarring and loss of liver function), liver failure, and an increased risk of liver cancer are potential complications that arise as the inflamed liver tissue becomes progressively damaged and scarred[1][2].
Fortunately, early-stage MASLD can be managed and even reversed with lifestyle changes, including losing just 5% of body weight, which significantly improves liver health[1].
Abnormal results in liver function tests may indicate liver damage or liver disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. A doctor may discuss a person's liver function test results over the phone or schedule a follow-up appointment. It's crucial for individuals to undergo regular health screenings to detect liver disease at an early stage.
Liver function tests measure the levels of proteins, enzymes, and waste materials in a person's blood. Higher than normal concentrations of GGT in the blood may indicate alcohol-related liver damage. The tests include Alanine transaminase (ALT), Aspartate transaminase (AST), Alkaline phosphate (ALP), Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), Bilirubin, Albumin, and Prothrombin time (PT)[2]. Prolonged Prothrombin time may be a sign of certain blood clotting disorders related to liver damage.
Doctors can prescribe medications that treat viral hepatitis infections, autoimmune hepatitis, and conditions that damage the bile ducts. People who have liver damage due to alcohol use disorder may need a doctor's help to stop drinking.
Liver disease is a significant global health risk, with cirrhosis ranking as the 11th leading cause of death worldwide[5]. Liver function tests are performed on blood samples, which are collected through a quick and straightforward procedure called a blood draw.
In summary, obesity causes liver damage primarily through fat accumulation and associated metabolic dysfunctions that promote inflammation and scarring in the liver. The long-term consequences include cirrhosis, liver failure, and cancer, but early intervention focused on weight loss and metabolic health can mitigate these risks. Regular health screenings are essential to detect liver disease at an early stage and maintain overall health.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6446568/ [2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liver-function-tests/about/pac-20385379 [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6216553/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6216553/ [5] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/liver-disease
- Alcohol use can lead to specific liver damage, as indicated by high GGT levels in the blood, demonstrating the importance of considering one's medical-conditions and health-and-wellness when it comes to alcohol consumption.
- Paxlovid, a medication for treating viral hepatitis infections, can be prescribed for individuals suffering from different liver diseases, such as those caused by alcohol use or other medical-conditions.
- In the context of health-and-wellness, liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, is recognized as a significant global threat to health, making regular screening for liver disease a crucial aspect of maintaining overall medical-conditions.
- The process of liver damage due to excessive body weight and associated metabolic dysfunctions often triggers a condition called Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), which can further develop into retargeting conditions like fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
