Final answer:
Prior to a liver biopsy, it is crucial to check lab values indicating liver function and coagulation status, particularly ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin levels, and INR, to ensure the patient's liver health and minimize the risk of bleeding.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before conducting a liver biopsy, it is critical to be aware of certain laboratory values indicating liver function and coagulation status. The primary lab values include liver enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin levels, as well as coagulation tests including the international normalized ratio (INR). ALT is particularly significant as it rises dramatically in acute liver damage and is a measure commonly used to gauge the condition of the liver.
An increase in ALP levels may indicate bile duct obstruction or liver disease, while elevated bilirubin levels suggest jaundice. Since the liver is responsible for producing coagulation factors, the INR is an important test that reflects coagulation efficiency. An increased INR indicates a longer clotting time, which can be a sign of significant liver damage affecting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors.
In summary, being aware of these lab values is essential as they provide vital information on liver health and the risk of bleeding post-biopsy, thus ensuring safe and effective diagnostic procedures.