The determination of bile acids in serum is used for:
- Assessment of changes in liver function before the development of advanced clinical symptoms, such as jaundice
- Identification of hepatic impairment as a result of chemical and environmental impacts
- As an indicator of liver tissue improvement in patients with chronic hepatitis C responding to interferon treatment
- As an indicator of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
More information
Bile acids (cholic acid, deoxycholic acid, and chenodeoxycholic acid) are formed in the liver from cholesterol, conjugated mainly with glycine and taurine, stored and concentrated in the gallbladder and secreted into the intestine after a meal. In the intestinal lumen, bile acids serve to emulsify ingested fats, thus aiding digestion. During the absorption phase, approximately 90% of bile acids are reabsorbed.
The efficiency of hepatic clearance of bile acids from portal blood maintains serum bile acid concentrations at low levels in normal individuals. Increased levels due to impaired hepatic clearance is a sensitive indicator of liver disease. After meals, serum bile acid levels increase slightly in normal individuals. Still, they are significantly increased in patients with various liver diseases, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, cholestasis, portal vein thrombosis, Budd-Chiari syndrome, cholangitis, Wilson's disease, and hemochromatosis. No increase in bile acids is observed in patients with intestinal malabsorption. Metabolic liver disorders (e.g., Gilbert's syndrome, Crigler-Najjar syndrome, Dubin-Johnson syndrome) do not cause abnormal bile acid concentrations.
Bile acid measurement evaluates the enterohepatic cycle, which consists of the biliary system, intestine, portal circulation, and hepatocytes.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
