Blood tests for gastroenterology help diagnose and monitor diseases related to the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Here are some common blood tests used in gastroenterology:
1. Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Purpose: To assess liver health and detect liver disease, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver.
- Parameters: ALT, AST, ALP, Bilirubin, Albumin.
2. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Purpose: To check for anemia, infections, and other disorders related to the gastrointestinal system.
- Parameters: Hemoglobin, WBC count, Platelets.
3. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
- Purpose: To detect inflammation, which is often associated with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
4. Amylase and Lipase
- Purpose: To diagnose pancreatitis or other pancreatic disorders.
- Parameters: Elevated levels indicate pancreatic inflammation or injury.
5. Serum Electrolytes
- Purpose: To check for electrolyte imbalances that may occur due to vomiting, diarrhea, or malabsorption.
- Parameters: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Bicarbonate.
6. Iron Studies
- Purpose: To detect iron deficiency anemia, which can occur in chronic gastrointestinal bleeding or malabsorption.
- Parameters: Ferritin, Serum Iron, Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC).
7. Helicobacter pylori Antibodies
- Purpose: To diagnose H. pylori infection, which is linked to peptic ulcers and gastritis.
8. Celiac Disease Antibody Tests
- Purpose: To detect antibodies associated with celiac disease, such as tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and anti-gliadin antibodies.
9. Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels
- Purpose: To check for deficiencies that can result from malabsorption conditions, especially in the small intestine.
10. Tumor Markers (CEA, CA 19-9)
- Purpose: To help detect gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal cancer and pancreatic cancer.
- Markers: CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen), CA 19-9 (Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9).
These tests provide valuable insights into various gastrointestinal disorders and help doctors diagnose and manage conditions effectively.