Paper Topic:

`with reference to normal liver function explain the principles of liver function tests and how they can be used to diagnose liver disease`

LIVER FUNCTION TESTS

The liver is an organ of the digestive system that is located in the upper region of the abdomen . The main function of this organ is to serve as a storage place for glycogen , which is known as the fuel resource of the human body . Glycogen can be degraded into simple sugar units which can serve as source of energy for various physiological activities (Zafrani , 2004 . The liver also facilitates in the processing of fats , as well as proteins , that have been consumed by an individual during a meal

. This organ also produces specific proteins known as clotting factors , which are important in blood coagulation The liver also processes any medications that are taken by an individual , as well as assist in the removal of poisons and other toxic substances that may be circulating in the body

Another major function of the liver is to produce bile , which is a fluid of green to yellow color , a substance that is comprised of acids pigments and bilirubin . Once bile is produced by the liver , this fluid is conducted through a system of ducts which drain directly into a bigger passageway , known as the common bile duct . The storage sac for the bile that is produced by the liver is the gall bladder , which drains directly from the common bile duct . The simple mechanism of digestion thus involves the extrusion of bile by the gall bladder during every meal , in for the bile to emulsify any fats that...

7 pages

38.0 KB

Free sing-up