PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, both in normal and cancerous cells. A small amount of PSA normally leaks into the bloodstream.

When Low:

Typically not significant.

When High:

May suggest prostate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer. Clinical context is essential.

TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates the production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) from the thyroid gland. It is a key marker for diagnosing thyroid disorders.

When Low:

Low TSH often indicates hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive. Symptoms may include irritability, insomnia, palpitations, and weight loss.

When High:

High TSH typically indicates hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is underactive. Symptoms include tiredness, weight gain, depression, slow heart rate, and feeling cold.

FT4 measures the unbound, active form of thyroxine in the bloodstream. It is essential for metabolism, growth, and development.

When Low:

Low FT4 levels are seen in hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is underactive. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, depression, cold intolerance, and dry skin.

When High:

High FT4 levels indicate hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, weight loss, nervousness, sweating, and difficulty sleeping.

FT3 is the active form of thyroid hormone that helps regulate many body processes. It is often measured to assess thyroid function, particularly in suspected cases of hyperthyroidism.

When Low:

Low FT3 may point to hypothyroidism or non-thyroidal illness (a condition where severe illness affects thyroid function without primary thyroid disease). Symptoms include fatigue, slow metabolism, constipation, and sensitivity to cold.

When High:

High FT3 levels are typically seen in hyperthyroidism. Symptoms include anxiety, tremors, palpitations, weight loss, and heat intolerance.

Albumin is the most abundant protein in the blood plasma, produced by the liver. It maintains oncotic pressure and transports hormones, vitamins, and drugs.​

When Low:

Low albumin levels can result from liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition. Symptoms may include swelling, fatigue, and muscle weakness.​

When High:

High albumin levels are rare and often indicate dehydration. Rehydration typically normalizes levels.​

Bilirubin is a yellow substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. It is processed by the liver and excreted in bile. Bilirubin levels help assess liver function and can indicate problems with red blood cell breakdown.

When Low:

Low bilirubin is generally not a concern and doesn’t usually cause symptoms. However, abnormally low bilirubin could sometimes hint at increased oxidative stress or an overactive liver.

When High:

High bilirubin levels can lead to jaundice, where the skin and eyes turn yellow. It may indicate liver diseases (like hepatitis or cirrhosis), gallstones, or hemolytic anemia (where red blood cells break down too quickly). Other symptoms can include dark urine, pale stools, and fatigue.

GGT is an enzyme found in the liver and is involved in the transport of amino acids and the metabolism of glutathione, an antioxidant. It is highly sensitive to liver and bile duct health.

When Low:

Low GGT levels are typically normal and healthy. They do not usually indicate any health issue and are associated with good liver function.

When High:

Elevated GGT levels may indicate liver disease, bile duct problems, or excessive alcohol intake. High GGT can also be triggered by certain medications. Symptoms may include jaundice, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and general malaise.

Alanine Transferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver. It plays a crucial role in converting proteins into energy for liver cells. ALT levels in the blood are a marker of liver health, as they can rise when liver cells are damaged.

When Low:

Low ALT levels are generally considered normal and are not usually a cause for concern. They are typically not associated with any specific symptoms or health conditions. However, in rare cases, very low levels could indicate a vitamin B6 deficiency, which might cause fatigue, irritability, and nerve problems.

When High:

High ALT levels often indicate liver damage or inflammation. Conditions associated with elevated ALT include hepatitis, fatty liver disease (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), liver cirrhosis, or liver injury from medication or toxins. Symptoms could include fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and unexplained weight loss.

ALP is an enzyme found throughout the body, but mainly in the liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. It plays a role in breaking down proteins and is especially important for bone health.

When Low:

Low ALP levels might be linked to conditions such as malnutrition, protein deficiency, or certain inherited disorders like hypophosphatasia, a rare bone disease. Symptoms might include bone pain, muscle weakness, and fatigue.

When High:

High ALP levels can suggest liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or bone disorders such as Paget’s disease or bone cancers. Symptoms may include bone pain, fragile bones (increased risk of fractures), itching, or signs of jaundice if the liver is affected.

Total protein measures the combined amount of albumin and globulin in the blood. Proteins are essential for various bodily functions, including immune responses and maintaining fluid balance.​

When Low:

Low total protein levels may indicate liver or kidney disease, or issues with protein digestion or absorption. Symptoms can include swelling, fatigue, and infections.

When High:

High total protein levels could be due to dehydration or certain types of cancer, such as multiple myeloma. Further tests are needed to determine the specific cause.

Globulins are a group of proteins involved in liver function, blood clotting, and fighting infections.​

When Low:

Low globulin levels may suggest liver or kidney disease, or immune deficiencies. Symptoms can include increased susceptibility to infections.​

When High:

High globulin levels can be associated with chronic infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain cancers. Further testing is necessary to determine the cause.​