The liver is responsible for synthesizing different proteins. In advanced liver disease, the creation of these proteins is impaired and can be measured with the following lab tests:
PT/INR
o Coagulation factors II, VII, IX and X are synthesized in the liver. As a result, coagulation is impaired, resulting in a prolonged PT and elevated INR
Albumin
o Albumin is the most abundant protein made in the liver.
Platelet Count
o Thrombopoietin is synthesized in the liver and is responsible for the creation of platelets. A low platelet count may further suggest impaired liver synthetic function. It is important to know that there are other causes of thrombocytopenia in liver disease as well, such as spleen sequestration and destruction in the bone marrow.
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