Definition and reference range for labs

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

An enzyme that is mainly in the liver but can be present in the kidneys, heart, muscles, and the pancreas in small amounts. Testing shows how much enzyme is in the blood. Elevated levels can indicate liver damage/disease

Range: 10-40 U/L

Albumin

A protein made by the liver to balance fluid in the bloodstream and transfer molecules.

Range: 3.5-5 g/dL for adults ; 3.4-4.2 g/dL in children

Grams per deciliter

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

An enzyme that is throughout the body but primarily found in the liver, bones, kidneys, intestines, and placenta during birth. It’s utilized for bone formation and transportation of phosphate. Labs can indicate liver or bone disorders.

Range: 30-120 IU/L in adults ; 150-420 IU/L in children

Ammonia

testing is done to see how much ammonia is in the blood. High results can indicate liver’s disease or kidney failure. High levels can sauce severe brain damage or a coma

Range: 15-45 mcg/dL

Micrograms per deciliter

Amylase

an enzyme that breaks down carbs, specifically starches, into simple sugar. they are produced in the pancreas and salivary glands, making it a key role in digestion

range: 27/131 U/L

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)

an enzyme that is found in the liver, heart, muscles, and other tissues. Elevated levels can indicate tissue damage or disease.

range: 10/30 U/L

Bilirubin (direct)

also known as conjugated bilirubin. it is water-soluble and gets processed by the liver. elevated levels can indicate problems with the liver to bile ducts, like cholestasis, where the bile flow is blocked.

range 0.1-0.3 mg/dL

Bilirubin (total)

testing will measure the levels of rubin in the blood. Bilirubin is produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells.

range: 0.3-1.2 mg/dL

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood. It’s a water product that is made when the body breaks down proteins. Elevated levels can indicate kidney problems, but they can also be caused by dehydration or a high-protein diet.

range: 8-23 mg/dL in adults ; lower in children