There are a lot of acronyms used in the medical field. One area where we use abbreviations frequently is with the blood work and laboratory tests we run. In this three part series of blogs, we will look at some of the different abbreviations and acronyms we use so you can speak the lingo with us! This second part of the series will focus on the chemistry profile or chem. It is a test that looks at liver and kidney values, proteins, blood sugar, and sometimes electrolytes. There are a number of liver enzymes that we can look at. ALP, or alkaline phosphatase, ALT, alanine aminotransferase, and AST, aspartate aminotransferase are three of the main liver enzymes we look at. Elevations can indicate inflammation in the body or GI tract, can indicate liver disease, or they can be elevated with other disease processes such as gall bladder disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, or Cushing’s disease. Some medications can also cause liver enzyme elevations. In some growing puppies and kittens these can be elevated as well with bone growth. Total bilirubin or T bili, or bili, is a liver enzyme that is associated with the gall bladder. Bilirubin is a breakdown product of blood, and is metabolized into bile, which is excreted into the GI […]
Providing the best possible veterinary care for your pet.
Heritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
