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Blood Chemistry - what do those numbers mean?
Albumin (ALB) A protein that is produced by the liver. Reduced levels of this protein can point to chronic liver, kidney or intestinal disease.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) An enzyme that becomes elevated with liver disease or injury.
Alkaline Phosphate (ALKP) An enzyme present in multiple tissues including liver and bone. Elevated levels can indicate liver disease, Cushing’s syndrome or steroid therapy.
Amylase (AMYL) An enzyme produced by the pancreas. The pancreas secretes amylase to aid in digestion. Elevated blood levels can indicate pancreatic disease.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) BUN is produced by the liver and executed by the kidneys. Abnormally high levels can indicate kidney disease or dehydration, and low levels can be associated with liver disease.
Calcium (Ca2+) Increased levels can be seen with diseases of the parathyroid gland and kidneys, or as an indicator of certain types of tumors
Cholesterol (CHOL) Elevated levels are seen in a variety of disorders including hypothyroidism, liver or kidney disease.
Creatinine (CREA) Creatinine is a by-product of muscle metabolism and is excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels can indicate kidney disease, urinary tract obstruction or dehydration.
Blood Glucose (GLU) High levels can indicate diabetes. Low levels can indicate liver disease, infection or certain tumors.
Phosphorus (PHOS) Elevated levels can be an indicator of kidney disease.
Total Bilirubin (TBIL) Bilirubin is a breakdown product of hemoglobin as well as a component of bile. Blood bilirubin are useful in indication liver disease or anemia.
Total Protein (TP) The level of TP can detect a variety of conditions including dehydration and diseases of the liver, kidney or intestine.
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