$Unique_ID{BRK01437}
$Pretitle{Digestive System, Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests}
$Title{Liver Test Results}
$Subject{liver tests}
$Volume{I-8, P-8}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Liver Test Results


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QUESTION:  As part of a routine annual examination, my blood and urine were
sent to the lab for testing.  When I returned for a consultation and the
report of my results my doctor told me that one of my liver tests was "a
little off".  He questioned me further about any new symptoms or problems I
might not have mentioned (there were neither) check me over briefly again, but
then decided not to run any more tests.  Do you think we may be overlooking
something that might be a legitimate cause of worry?

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ANSWER:  During an annual examination, it is customary to obtain a whole
battery of laboratory tests that serve to screen the functioning of many
systems.  When the results of a tests return with findings in an abnormal
range, its time to rethink the situation again.  Since some of these tests may
have an answer that is considered a "false positive", that is an abnormal
result when there is really nothing wrong, retesting may not always be
considered necessary.  When the patient has no symptoms, and nothing can be
detected by physical examination, and when the test result is borderline, many
physicians do not feel it is imperative to repeat the examination.  In some
cases additional history will uncover a medication being used that can affect
the test results.  Among these medications are tetracycline and erythromycin
(antibiotics), oral contraceptives, sulfonamides, and many others.  However
the purpose of an annual physical is to discover unsuspected ailments at the
earliest possible opportunity, and to deal with them effectively before they
advance and become dangerous.  That requires that even a small difference from
the normal in lab results, be viewed with just a bit of suspicion.  While I
truly do not believe that you have serious cause for concern, prudence
dictates that an abnormal test be repeated.  A normal result on the repeat
test would certainly put your mind at ease, and if it is abnormal once again,
a careful search for the reason is in order.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
