Which tests may be ordered to assess the toxic effects of acetaminophen?

Which tests may be ordered to assess the toxic effects of acetaminophen?

• A. AST and ALT
• B. Amylase and lipase
• C. BUN and creatinine
• D. CK and LD

Answer: (A)

Acetaminophen toxicity primarily damages the liver, so the most informative tests are liver enzymes. When liver cells are injured, their contents spill into the bloodstream, raising levels of ALT and AST. ALT is more specific to the liver, making its rise a reliable indicator of hepatocellular injury from acetaminophen, while AST also increases but is less liver-specific. These enzymes help gauge the extent of liver damage and guide treatment decisions. In contrast, amylase and lipase point to pancreatic issues, BUN and creatinine assess kidney function, and CK and LD reflect muscle or other tissue injury; they’re not the primary markers for acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity.

Acetaminophen toxicity primarily damages the liver, so the most informative tests are liver enzymes. When liver cells are injured, their contents spill into the bloodstream, raising levels of ALT and AST. ALT is more specific to the liver, making its rise a reliable indicator of hepatocellular injury from acetaminophen, while AST also increases but is less liver-specific. These enzymes help gauge the extent of liver damage and guide treatment decisions. In contrast, amylase and lipase point to pancreatic issues, BUN and creatinine assess kidney function, and CK and LD reflect muscle or other tissue injury; they’re not the primary markers for acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity.