There’s always more to learn about the liver, healthcare, and better living (See Learning about the Liver for my disclaimers and suggestions). Terms that might be a little unfamiliar or used differently when related to liver disease will be listed here. Toggle the arrow markers to see the definition and any associated links.
Albumin
Albumin is a water-soluble protein that the liver produces. A low level of albumin can indicate generally poor health or declining liver function. See https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentide=albumin_blood
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha 1)
This rare genetic condition, better known as Alpha-1, manifests as damage to the lungs and/or the liver (depending on the type). Some symptoms are manageable but there is no cure. See https://alpha1.org/what-is-alpha1/ for more information.
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
AFP is a tumor marker. If the lab test shows a higher AFP, liver cancer may be present. However, AFP may not show up as elevated even if cancer is present. See http://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/alpha-fetoprotein-afp-test/
Ascites
Ascites (sounds like a-sight-ease when pronounced) results from an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity between the various organs. It is a common complication of portal hypertension. See https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/liver-and-gallbladder-disorders/manifestations-of-liver-disease/ascites
Cholestatic Hepatitis
Cholesatic Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver which includes an impairment or failure of the bile flow within the bile ducts. See https://livertox.nih.gov/Phenotypes_chol.html
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is the stage of liver disease when damage, essentially severe scarring, is permanent and extensive in the liver. The liver becomes hardened and rough and progressively cannot do its job. See So, Cirrhosis? What is that?
End-Stage Liver Disease (ESLD)
End-Stage Liver Disease may also be called Liver Failure. Liver damage is cumulative and ESLD is the stage when the liver stops being able to fully function.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver – that’s it.
Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
Liver Function Tests, also referred to as a hepatic panel, are groups of blood tests that provide information about the state of a patient’s liver. These tests include prothrombin time, aPTT, albumin, bilirubin, and others. See https://labtestsonline.org/tests/liver-panel or https://medlineplus.gov/liverfunctiontests.html.
Prothrombin Time (PT)
Prothrombin time (PT) is a blood test that measures the time it takes for the liquid portion (plasma) of your blood to clot. See https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003652.htm
Waiting 