Question 68:
Among the following Liver Function Tests, which one indicates hepatocellular damage?
AST is the liver function test that primarily indicates hepatocellular damage. The correct answer is (A) AST.
Option Analysis
Option (A) AST
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), also called SGOT, is released from damaged hepatocytes during hepatocellular injury like hepatitis or cirrhosis. Elevated AST levels, especially with high ALT, signal liver cell damage.
Option (B) ALP
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) rises mainly in cholestasis or biliary obstruction, originating from bile ducts and bone. It does not specifically indicate hepatocyte damage.
Option (C) BIL
Bilirubin (BIL) measures liver’s processing of heme breakdown products. Elevated levels suggest conjugation defects or excretion issues (jaundice), not direct cell damage.
Option (D) GGT
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) elevates in alcohol use, cholestasis, or drug induction, aiding ALP interpretation but not marking hepatocellular damage.
Liver function tests hepatocellular damage patterns help diagnose liver injury in exams like GATE Life Sciences. AST elevation flags hepatocyte damage, while ALP, BIL, and GGT point to other issues like obstruction or alcohol effects.
Test Patterns
| Test | Damage Type | Key Causes |
|---|---|---|
| AST | Hepatocellular | Viral hepatitis, toxins |
| ALP | Cholestatic | Bile duct block, pregnancy |
| BIL | Synthetic/Obstructive | Hemolysis, cirrhosis |
| GGT | Inducible | Alcohol, drugs |
Clinical Use
-
AST/ALT ratio >2 suggests alcohol damage.
-
High ALP + GGT confirms biliary source.
Exam Strategy
Pick AST for hepatocellular damage MCQs—know transaminases (AST/ALT) vs. cholestatic markers (ALP/GGT).
