Which laboratory values are indicative of hepatic function?

The correct answer highlights the importance of ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) levels as indicators of hepatic function. These enzymes are primarily found in the liver, and their levels in the blood can provide valuable information regarding liver health. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, these enzymes are released into the bloodstream, resulting in elevated levels. Therefore, measuring ALT and AST can help in assessing liver damage, inflammation, or disease.

ALT is specifically more liver-specific than AST and is often used to evaluate conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease. Elevated levels of both enzymes often signal a problem with liver function, making their measurement critical in diagnosing and monitoring liver-related issues.

While other options include relevant laboratory values, they do not specifically reflect hepatic function as directly as ALT and AST do. BUN and creatinine levels are primarily markers for kidney function, while hemoglobin and hematocrit are indicators of blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity, not liver health. Albumin and bilirubin are also significant for hepatic function, but they are usually assessed in combination with enzyme levels to give a more comprehensive picture of liver health.