What do thymol tests affect? Thymol test in children: description of the analysis, norm and deviation from the norm
Blood contains 5 types of proteins. These fractions are called globulins. The amount of proteins varies due to various pathological processes in the body. It is possible to either decrease or increase their number due to bacteria, infections, abuse of alcoholic beverages, fatty foods, fried foods, and poisoning.
This biochemical study shows how much protein the liver produces and how well it copes with this function. The good thing is that even at an early stage of the process, without visible external manifestations, pathology can be identified.
The essence of the analysis is to monitor the blood serum sediment. Units of magnitude are expressed in M or according to Shank-Hoaland in S-H. The research method is called photocolorimetric (the wavelength of the radiation is usually 0.65 microns) or turbidimetric.
Blood serum is taken and a solution of thymol and medinal-veronal is added. After 30 minutes, a laboratory assistant examines the result using a photocolorimeter. Due to the reaction of proteins to the influence of thymol, a change in the transparency of the test liquid occurs. The color and type of sediment are taken into account, and not its chemical properties.
What does the thymol test indicate?
This norm can be either positive or negative. In addition, doctors prescribe monitoring of this analysis to assess changes in protein sediment. This is how the quality of treatment is assessed and possible changes are made if necessary.
The test is positive in the following cases:
- viral hepatitis A, B, C;
- toxic diseases of the liver and biliary tract;
- cirrhosis;
- scleroderma;
- arthritis, inflammatory diseases joints;
- malaria;
- viral infections;
- any formations (both benign and not) in the liver area;
- hormonal liver dysfunction due to exchange therapy or pregnancy prevention;
- kidney diseases (various nephritis);
- inflammation of the pancreas and intestines;
- genetic disorders in the amount of proteins produced by the liver;
- atherosclerosis (lipid metabolism disorder, for various reasons).
As you can see, thymol analysis allows you to detect very serious illnesses, prescribe therapy on time and even save the patient’s life.
The test is negative if:
- obstructive jaundice due to obstruction of bile outflow;
- rheumatic diseases.
A change in results towards an increase indicates a deterioration in the patient’s condition, while a decrease indicates that therapy gives positive results.
Preparation for thymol test
The material for such a biochemical analysis is produced by taking blood from a vein. Doctors believe that the most accurate indicators will be if the study is carried out early in the morning and the patient does not eat beforehand. It is advisable not to drink any liquid two hours before the test. The day before, stop drinking water and food after 8 pm.
Thymol test norm and table of values
This analysis does not vary according to gender based. Normally, for both men and women, the value should be in the range from 0 to 4-5 units. The same applies to age; if the liver functions well, this does not affect the amount of proteins synthesized.
There is one exception: with long-term regular use of hormonal contraceptives, liver function is slightly impaired, so the value of the thymol test in women increases.
Thymol test the norm in women is 0-5 units in the blood, with the assumption of a slight increase.
A negative result indicates that the liver is functioning and proteins are being produced in the required proportion. Positive test indicates that there are certain pathological processes in the body, which manifest themselves in a change in the number of protein fractions and a violation of their quality.
All blood proteins are divided into several groups: albumins, globulins, lipoproteins. Each of them has its own functions and molecular weight. Any changes in the number of these fractions or the formation of proteins that, in principle, should not appear (paroglobulins) indicate malfunctions in the colloid blood system.
If proteins begin to stick together and precipitate during the reaction (thymol test), this indicates that the liver is not performing its synthesis function. A positive test is obvious pathology In most cases.
Thymol test value
This analysis is statistical in nature; it indicates quantitative changes in protein fractions, if they are present in human blood serum. This analysis is not enough to clarify the diagnosis. It is important to take complete biochemical blood parameters: bilirubin level, AST (aminotransferase), phosphatase, ALT and others.
Previously, the thymol test was given importance diagnostic value. At this stage of development of medicine, this is one of the important biochemical tests that signals changes in the body, but requires additional research.
To assess the producing properties of the liver, a thymol test is prescribed. Using this analysis, you can find out the ratio of all five protein fractions that this organ produces. Considering that the liver is responsible for the processes of hematopoiesis, metabolism, and hormone balance, you should worry if the thymol test is elevated - the reasons for this result lie in the development of various internal diseases.
Causes of elevated thymol test
The abnormality in question in the biochemical blood test is called dysproteinemia. Its causes are considered to be:
- toxic, alcoholic, viral, drug-induced hepatitis;
- fatty infiltration of the liver;
- Bekhterev's disease;
- glomerulonephritis;
- cirrhosis of the liver;
- amyloidosis;
- Goodpasture's syndrome;
- genetic disorders of protein metabolism;
- liver cancer;
- cryoglobulinemia;
- periarteritis nodosa;
- pyelonephritis;
- brucellosis;
- malaria;
- hemorrhagic vasculitis;
- leptospirosis;
- Wegener's granulomatosis;
- systemic lupus erythematosus;
- multiple myeloma;
- prolonged and uncontrolled use oral contraceptives, steroid hormones;
- mononucleosis;
- macroglobulinemia;
- dermatomyositis;
- pancreatitis;
- Sjögren's disease;
- rheumatoid polyarthritis;
- obstructive jaundice;
- enteritis with severe diarrhea;
- malignant tumors;
- Horton's disease.
In addition, the reasons for an increased thymol test may be a violation of the diet, namely, the consumption of excess fat. Therefore, to clarify the diagnosis, additional laboratory and x-ray studies should be performed.
Increased thymol test in the blood - causes and treatment of this condition
As can be seen, the factors contributing to 
increasing the described indicator of liver function, very much. Therefore, it is possible to normalize the value of the thymol test only after establishing the exact cause of the disorder. Depending on the identified disease, a comprehensive therapeutic regimen is drawn up.
Among the prescriptions common to all pathologies, there must be compliance with special diet. The diet involves strict limitation of fats, both animal and plant origin. It is also necessary to practically abandon the consumption of so-called “fast” carbohydrates, sour fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits and tomatoes, meat and fish soups, and broths.
Thymol test norm and diagnostic value
For a number of diseases, sediment samples are used for diagnostic purposes. One of them is the thymol test, proposed in 1944 by McLagan. It is based on changes in the colloidal stability of serum proteins in diseases accompanied by dysproteinemia.
Normally, blood proteins are in a state of high stability. When the ratio of albumin and globulin fractions changes, the colloidal stability of proteins decreases. The lower it is, the more proteins precipitate and precipitate when the thymol reagent is added.
When carrying out the test, an alcohol solution of thymol in veronal buffer or Tris buffer is used as a reagent. The chemistry of the reaction is not completely clear. However, the thymol test clearly correlates with the clinical picture of diseases occurring with dysproteinemia. It is simple to perform and not labor-intensive, so it continues to be widely used when conducting biochemical blood tests.
When performing a test, the patient’s serum is added to the saline solution, then the reagent is added. If normally the thymol test is accompanied by a very slight loss of protein flakes and a slight clouding of the reaction mixture, then in the case of dysproteinemia the solution becomes significantly cloudy. The degree of turbidity depends on the degree of disruption of the colloidal properties of proteins. The test result increases with a decrease in albumin and an increase in beta and gamma globulins.
The degree of turbidity is measured using a biochemical analyzer or photoelectrocolorimeter. Barium chloride of a certain concentration is used as a standard solution.
Special clinical significance This study is used for hepatitis, collagenosis and other diseases accompanied by disproteinemia - a violation of the ratio of serum proteins. Liver damage due to hepatitis is characterized by an increased thymol test. Its norm is from 0 to 4 units. With hepatitis, it becomes positive a week before jaundice. In some cases, the sample increases to 20 or more units. With such high rates it is necessary to repeat the test with the patient’s serum diluted 1:1 and increase the result by 2 times.
Hemolyzed serum is not suitable for testing. During hemolysis, the destruction of red blood cells, it turns red. In this case, the sample will be overestimated. The analysis must be repeated after a new blood draw from a vein.
The thymol test is overestimated if the serum is lipemic (chylous), cloudy due to the presence of lipids (chylomicrons) in it. A laboratory technician, when conducting a test with such serum, should, instead of monitoring with saline solution, make a control with the patient’s serum diluted with saline solution.
To avoid frailty, blood for biochemical studies must be donated strictly on an empty stomach. It must be delivered to the laboratory no later than 2 hours after blood collection. When stored in the refrigerator, the serum is suitable for testing for no more than 7 days.
What does an elevated thymol test mean? Its interpretation is as follows: if it significantly exceeds the norm, you can think about liver disease (hepatitis or cirrhosis), kidney disease occurring with nephrotic syndrome, systemic diseases such as rheumatism, rheumatoid polyarthritis, scleroderma. It is impossible to make a diagnosis based on one indicator. The thymol test should be evaluated in conjunction with other studies. If liver disease is suspected, at least biochemical tests must be done at the same time to determine the level of general and direct bilirubin, transaminases, cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, zinc sulfate or sublimate test.
Liver tests: interpretation of the analysis. Normal liver function tests
The liver is one of the most important organs person. It is with its help that toxins and drug residues are broken down and removed. Every day she is exposed to enormous stress, but, nevertheless, she recovers quickly. Unfortunately, this only happens before certain point. Define functionality Liver tests help the liver. Deciphering the analysis will help identify problems in this organ.
Liver tests - what are they?
In order to determine the condition of the liver and bile ducts, modern medicine uses whole line laboratory research, who received common name liver tests. Material for research is obtained by collecting venous blood, and with its help the following analyzes are done:
- AST, ALT;
- bilirubin;
- alkaline phosphatase;
- total protein;
- albumen.
These laboratory tests allow you to evaluate existing disorders, as well as the ability of the liver to maintain one of its most important functions - the synthesis of enzymes and other substances necessary for normal life.
The endogenous enzymes AST and ALT are an important component in the production of certain amino acids. The norm of AST and ALT differs depending on the gender and age of the patient, as well as on his body weight, temperature and lifestyle. IN healthy body their number is insignificant, and in men it is slightly more than in women.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
This enzyme is found, as a rule, in liver tissue and partly in the heart and muscles. The norm for women is 10-35 U/l, and for men - from 14 to 20 U/l. An increase in normal values may indicate damage to the organs where it is contained. Depending on how much the norm is exceeded (and this indicator can vary from several units to an increase of five to ten times), the degree of damage is determined. In order to make sure that the pathological process is affecting the liver, complete liver tests are performed. The transcript of the analysis confirms or refutes suspicions with a high degree of probability.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
Bilirubin
There are three types of bilirubin - direct (bound), indirect (unbound) and general, while the latter does not exist on its own, but is a combination of the first and second types. This pigment substance is formed due to the breakdown of heme, which, in turn, is part of hemoglobin. The process takes place in the liver cells. In the presence of any pathological process in hepatocytes or bile ducts There is a change in the level of bilirubin in the blood serum.
Total bilirubin can range from 3.3 µmol/l to 20.5, with direct bilirubin accounting for about 25% of the total amount, that is, up to 3.3 µmol/l, and indirect bilirubin - 75% (13.6-17 .1 µmol/l). If liver tests are elevated, various inflammatory processes in the liver and gall bladder can be suspected. Visually, an increase in bilirubin levels is manifested by jaundice.
Alkaline phosphatase
Thymol test
The thymol test is another test included in the liver tests. The interpretation of the analysis in this case shows the liver’s ability to synthesize protein components of the blood. The thymol sample is classified as sedimentary. To carry it out, a saturated solution of thymol is added to the mixture of blood serum and buffer solution, and after half an hour the severity of turbidity of the solution is assessed. Normal values for this test range from 0 to 5 units. An increase occurs when protein synthesis is impaired and can signal viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and some diseases connective tissue. How is this blood test useful? Liver tests, and thymol tests in particular, allow already in the early stages, without waiting clinical manifestations, identify the disease and begin adequate therapy.
Albumen
One of the main plasma proteins is albumin. It is a leading component in maintaining blood oncotic pressure and, as a result, affects the volume of circulating blood. In addition, albumin plays important role V transport function, binding to bile acids, bilirubin, calcium ions and medicinal substances. Normally, albumin is between 35 and 50 g/l. An increase in indicators is observed with severe dehydration, a decrease is a reason to suspect inflammatory processes in the liver, sepsis, and rheumatic processes. In addition, a decrease in serum albumin is possible with prolonged fasting, use of oral contraceptives, steroids, and smoking.
Total protein
The term “total protein” usually means the total concentration of globulins and albumin in the blood serum. It is the main component of protein metabolism in human body. It performs many functions: maintains a constant blood pH, participates in clotting processes, immune reactions, transfer of fats, hormones and bilirubin to organs and tissues. Why does a doctor suggest patients take a liver test? Decoding (the norm for this indicator should be from 64 to 86 g/l) will help the specialist understand whether these functions are impaired. Thus, an increase in protein can be observed during acute and chronic inflammatory processes And infectious diseases, as well as for extensive burns. A decrease in indicators may be the result of bleeding, kidney disease, which is accompanied by significant protein losses (glomerulonephritis), and oncological processes.
Liver tests, the interpretation of which is of great importance in the diagnosis of many pathological conditions of the liver and other organs, are taken in the morning, on an empty stomach (the last meal should be taken at least 8 hours before the test). The day before it is necessary to exclude alcohol and fatty foods.
Thymol test and its significance in the diagnosis of liver pathology
Blood plasma proteins: synthesis, fractions and significance
On molecular level The most important functions in the human body are performed by proteins. They are structural components membranes, enzymes, hormones and transporters of other chemical compounds, carry out immune and other protective reactions, form the largest buffer system. Thus, the entire system of blood coagulation and anticoagulation consists of a cascade of enzymatic reactions, which are based on proteins. 
Their concentration is clearly reflected by the thymol test. In general, blood plasma proteins are conventionally divided into 5 fractions: albumin (makes up about 60% of the total protein mass, serves as a universal transporter of hormones, medicinal substances and many metabolites), α1-globulins (catalysts, transporters, blood clotting factors), α2-globulins (carriers of ions and vitamins), β-globulins (immune proteins, carriers of sex hormones, iron ions and vitamin B12) and γ-globulins ( main factors humoral immunity, which is why they are called “immunoglobulins”: A, D, E, G and M). Most of the above proteins are synthesized in the liver, as are 13 of the 15 blood clotting factors, due to which it is deservedly called the biochemical laboratory of the macroorganism. In addition, the liver detoxifies dangerous metabolites and drugs, produces bile - an important component of lipid digestion, deposits glucose in the form of a compact glycogen compound, and much more. etc. 
Indicators of liver pathology: thymol test
Damage to hepatocytes (the main cells of the liver) manifests itself, first of all, in the disruption of its functions, which is reflected in laboratory tests such as the thymol test. Yes, from dead cells released a large number of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, the most important serum enzymes, protein metabolism disorders occur. In particular, the titer of γ-globulins in the blood increases as a reaction of humoral immunity, which is often accompanied by a decrease in albumin in the blood. That is, the synthetic function of the liver suffers first.
Diagnostic value of the sample
The combination of thymol with γ-globulins precipitates and causes turbidity in the serum, therefore a specific test for the titer of these proteins is the thymol test. The turbidity rate is 0-4.7 units, however, with liver damage or rheumatic diseases this indicator increases significantly. Thus, persistent hypergammaglobulinemia is detected with autoimmune, viral or alcoholic hepatitis and active cirrhosis. The severity of liver damage and the amount of immunoglobulins are directly proportional. This is accompanied by hypoalbuminemia, since the synthetic function of the liver suffers, and the remaining resources are spent on the formation of immune proteins, which is also reflected by the thymol test. As a result, the oncotic pressure of the blood drops, and the fluid goes into the intercellular space, causing peripheral edema. With cholestasis or liver damage by metastases, γ-globulins remain unused, but the number of α2-globulins increases. The thymol test, the interpretation of which has not only diagnostic value for liver diseases, can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment, since as the pathological process subsides, the test results gradually return to normal.
What could a constantly elevated thymol test mean?
5.3 and 5.9 6.1 are approximately the same blood values. What might these blood values indicate?
The thymol test is nonspecific and its result depends on the level of coarse blood proteins - gamma globulins and low-density beta lipoproteins. Worth checking out lipid profile and determine LDL level, and also
gammaglobulins, the indicators of the latter change in certain diseases. Increases in cholesterol and LDL remain asymptomatic for the time being, but thymol levels may increase.
Spreo
In general, if the thymol test is elevated, this may indicate the presence of some pathology. These include liver disease, kidney disease, protein metabolism disorders, digestive system diseases and others. The reason for the increase in thymol test may be overuse fatty foods.
As far as I know, the thymol test rate depends on many factors, such as age, weight, etc.
Thank you
Biochemical blood analysis- This laboratory method studies of blood parameters, reflecting the functional state of certain internal organs, as well as indicating a lack of various microelements or vitamins in the body. Any, no matter how minor, change biochemical parameters blood, indicates that a certain internal organ is not coping with its functions. The results of biochemical blood tests are used by doctors in almost every field of medicine. They help establish the correct clinical diagnosis of the disease, determine the stage of its development, as well as prescribe and adjust treatment.
Preparing for the test
Biochemical analysis requires special preliminary preparation of the patient. Food intake is carried out at least 6 - 12 hours before the blood test. This is based on the fact that any food product is able to influence blood parameters, thereby changing the result of the analysis, which in turn may lead to failure correct diagnosis and treatment. It is also worth limiting your fluid intake. Alcohol, sweet coffee and tea, milk, and fruit juices are contraindicated.Method of analysis or blood sampling
During blood sampling, the patient is in a sitting or lying position. Blood for biochemical analysis is taken from the ulnar vein. To do this, a special tourniquet is applied a little above the elbow, then a needle is inserted directly into the vein and blood is drawn ( approximately 5 ml). After which the blood is placed in a sterile tube, on which the patient’s data must be indicated, and only after that it is sent to a biochemical laboratory.Protein metabolism indicators
Blood counts:Total protein – displays the protein content in the blood serum. Level total protein may increase with various diseases liver A decrease in the amount of protein is observed with insufficient nutrition and exhaustion of the body.
Normally, the level of total protein varies depending on age:
- in newborns it is 48 - 73 g/l
- in children under one year old – 47 - 72 g/l
- from 1 to 4 years – 61 - 75 g/l
- from 5 to 7 years – 52 - 78 g/l
- from 8 to 15 years – 58 - 76 g/l
- in adults – 65 - 85 g/l
Globulin – a simple protein, easily soluble in diluted saline solutions. Globulins in the body increase in the presence of inflammatory processes and infections, and decrease in immunodeficiency. The normal globulin content is 33.2 - 43.5%.
Fibrinogen is a colorless blood plasma protein produced in the liver that plays an important role in hemostasis. The level of fibrinogen in the blood increases during acute inflammatory processes in the body, infectious diseases, burns, surgical interventions, taking oral contraceptives, myocardial infarction, stroke, renal amyloidosis, hypothyroidism, malignant neoplasms. Increased level fibrinogen can be observed during pregnancy, especially in recent months. Fibrinogen levels decrease after consumption fish oil, anabolic hormones, androgens, etc. The normal fibrinogen content is 1.25 - 3 g/l in newborns, 2 - 4 g/l in adults.
Protein fractions:
Alpha-1-globulins. The norm is 3.5 - 6.0%, which is 2.1 - 3.5 g/l.
Alpha 2 globulins. The norm is 6.9 - 10.5%, which is 5.1 - 8.5 g/l.
Beta globulins. The norm is 7.3 - 12.5% (6.0 - 9.4 g/l).
Gamma globulins. Norm 12.8 - 19.0% (8.0 - 13.5 g/l).
Thymol test - a type of sediment test used to study liver function, in which thymol is used as a reagent. The norm is 0 - 6 units. Thymol test values increase with viral infections, hepatitis A, toxic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, malaria.
Sublimate test – sediment test used in functional studies of the liver. The norm is 1.6 - 2.2 ml. The test is positive for some infectious diseases, parenchymal liver diseases, neoplasms.
Veltman's test – colloid-sedimentary reaction for studying liver functions. The norm is 5 - 7 tube.
Formol test – a method designed to detect imbalance of proteins contained in the blood. Normally the test is negative.
Seromucoid – is an integral part of the protein-carbohydrate complex, participates in protein metabolism. Norm 0.13 - 0.2 units. Increased content seromucoid indicates rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatism, tumors, etc.
C-reactive protein – a protein contained in blood plasma is one of the proteins acute phase. Normally absent. The amount of C-reactive protein increases when there are inflammatory processes in the body.
Haptoglobin – a blood plasma protein synthesized in the liver, capable of specifically binding hemoglobin. The normal haptoglobin content is 0.9 - 1.4 g/l. The amount of haptoglobin increases during acute inflammatory processes, the use of corticosteroids, rheumatic carditis, nonspecific polyarthritis, lymphogranulomatosis, myocardial infarction ( macrofocal), collagenosis, nephrotic syndrome, tumors. The amount of haptoglobin decreases in pathologies accompanied by various types hemolysis, liver diseases, enlarged spleen, etc.
Creatinine in blood – is a product of protein metabolism. An indicator showing kidney function. Its content varies greatly depending on age. In children under 1 year of age, the blood contains from 18 to 35 µmol/l creatinine, in children from 1 to 14 years old - 27 - 62 µmol/l, in adults - 44 - 106 µmol/l. An increased creatinine content is observed with muscle damage and dehydration. Low level characteristic of fasting, vegetarian diet, pregnancy.
Urea – produced in the liver as a result of protein metabolism. An important indicator for determining functional work kidney The norm is 2.5 – 8.3 mmol/l. An increased urea content indicates a violation of the excretory ability of the kidneys and a violation of the filtration function.
Pigment metabolism indicators
Total bilirubin
– a yellow-red pigment that is formed as a result of the breakdown of hemoglobin. Normally it contains 8.5 - 20.5 µmol/l. Content total bilirubin occurs with any type of jaundice. Direct bilirubin
– The norm is 2.51 µmol/l. An increased content of this fraction of bilirubin is observed in parenchymal and congestive jaundice.
Indirect bilirubin
– The norm is 8.6 µmol/l. An increased content of this fraction of bilirubin is observed in hemolytic jaundice.
Methemoglobin – Norm 9.3 - 37.2 µmol/l (up to 2%).
Sulfhemoglobin – Norm 0 - 0.1% of the total amount.
Indicators of carbohydrate metabolism
Glucose – is the primary source of energy in the body. The norm is 3.38 - 5.55 mmol/l. Increased blood glucose ( hyperglycemia) indicates the presence of diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance, chronic diseases of the liver, pancreas and nervous system. Glucose levels may decrease with increased physical activity, pregnancy, prolonged fasting, and certain diseases. gastrointestinal tract associated with impaired glucose absorption.Sialic acids – The norm is 2.0 - 2.33 mmol/l. An increase in their number is associated with diseases such as polyarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and etc.
Protein-bound hexoses – The norm is 5.8 - 6.6 mmol/l.
Seromucoid-related hexoses - The norm is 1.2 - 1.6 mmol/l.
Glycosylated hemoglobin – The norm is 4.5 - 6.1 molar%.
Lactic acid - a breakdown product of glucose. It is a source of energy necessary for the functioning of muscles, the brain and the nervous system. The norm is 0.99 - 1.75 mmol/l.
Lipid metabolism indicators
Total cholesterol – an important organic compound that is a component of lipid metabolism. The normal cholesterol level is 3.9 - 5.2 mmol/l. An increase in its level may accompany the following diseases: obesity, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, chronic pancreatitis, myocardial infarction, coronary heart disease, some liver and kidney diseases, hypothyroidism, alcoholism, gout.Alpha lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol – lipoproteins high density. The norm is 0.72 -2.28 mmol/l.
Beta lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) – low density lipoproteins. The norm is 1.92 – 4.79 mmol/l.
Triglycerides – organic compounds that provide energy and structural functions. Normal triglyceride levels depend on age and gender.
- up to 10 years 0.34 - 1.24 mmol/l
- 10 – 15 years 0.36 – 1.48 mmol/l
- 15 – 20 years 0.45 – 1.53 mmol/l
- 20 – 25 years 0.41 – 2.27 mmol/l
- 25 – 30 years 0.42 – 2.81 mmol/l
- 30 – 35 years 0.44 – 3.01 mmol/l
- 35 – 40 years 0.45 – 3.62 mmol/l
- 40 – 45 years 0.51 – 3.61 mmol/l
- 45 – 50 years 0.52 – 3.70 mmol/l
- 50 – 55 years 0.59 – 3.61 mmol/l
- 55 – 60 years 0.62 – 3.23 mmol/l
- 60 – 65 years 0.63 – 3.29 mmol/l
- 65 – 70 years 0.62 – 2.94 mmol/l
To determine liver functionality in medical institution the patient may be prescribed quite frequent clinical analysis– thymol test. Such a diagnosis is carried out mainly when there is a suspicion of pathological changes in the liver. However, despite this, experts trust the results of the analysis used in medicine for a long time.
What is a thymol test?
A biochemical test for synthesizing processes in the liver is usually carried out if indicated. Many blood parameters depend on the functioning of the internal organ. As a result of the study, it is possible to determine the ratio of coagulation, cell division and the number of individual connections between each other.
The examination is carried out in the laboratory by releasing proteins from the blood serum, which are subsequently studied. After the protein whey is separated, it becomes cloudy. The thymol test in the blood depends on the degree of final change in serum protein.
Currently, this test is considered a routine test with low diagnostic value, since the exact mechanism of action of the test is not even reliably known, and it all comes down to a lot of accumulated experience. But on modern criteria diagnostics, any sample or analysis must be completely “clear” and transparent, i.e. the mechanism of action must be fully explained. It is in this regard that the thymol test is gradually being replaced from the list of studies in modern laboratories.
What should be the norm?
A thymol blood test shows whether the level is normal or exceeded. The norm for women is the same as for men. In some cases, certain individual characteristics body. The indicator is assessed by the attending physician.
The norm is a result with a reading from zero to five units.
The study allows you to identify possible health problems:
Liver pathologies;
Kidney inflammation;
Rheumatoid diseases;
Gastrointestinal diseases;
And others.
In most cases, if the thymol test is elevated, then pathological processes occur in the liver. If the diagnosis is not confirmed, examinations begin to exclude other diseases.
Reasons for false changes
If the test result shows that the protein reaction level is too high, then, as already mentioned, the liver is examined first. Until the eighties, this test was used exclusively to diagnose liver conditions, in recent years More and more attention is beginning to be paid to changes in serum protein in pathologies of other organs.
A high rate may also be the result of an incorrectly conducted study, so several factors are taken into account when deciphering:
Individual characteristics of the patient’s body (weight, age, accompanying illnesses etc);
Time and process of blood sampling (in the morning and only with special devices);
Patients taking hepatotoxic drugs.
Hormonal contraceptives taken regularly can increase the level of this indicator in the blood of women.
An amazing fact is that in cases of jaundice, in more than half of cases, the thymol test in an adult remains normal. However, when the disease causes complications, thymol increases sharply.
Increased rate
A referral for a thymol test is given by the attending physician based on certain indicators. If it is discovered that the thymol test is elevated, the patient may be sent for a repeat test, or prescribed additional examination to confirm the preliminary diagnosis.
An increase in the indicator demonstrates the presence of a pathological process in the body, which shows the likelihood of developing the following diseases:
Or another type of jade;
Rheumatoid arthritis;
Renal amyloidosis;
Enteritis;
Lupus;
Pancreatitis;
Dermatomyositis.
When the results of the study determine an elevated thymol test, the most unfavorable prognosis may be oncology.
But first of all, the patient has a high probability of progression of liver disease:
Jaundice;
Hepatitis, both viral and toxic or alcoholic;
Fatty liver degeneration;
Organ intoxication.
Sometimes repeated analysis gives normal results. What does this mean - improper preparation for the test or a mistake by the laboratory technician when taking blood.
Decoding
Even in cases where there is an increase in the thymol test, the reasons are not always serious. This study consists only of confirming or denying the reaction of protein serum. Therefore, it is impossible to make a diagnosis based on what the analysis shows.
Decoding the results of a blood test is simple. If the indicator shows no more than five, then the thymol test is normal. However, if the level is above normal data, then you should undergo full diagnostics, establish a diagnosis and begin treatment.
When, as a result of diagnosis, it is possible to reveal that the thymol test is elevated, the reasons for the deviation should be determined as early as possible. With the development of many diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis or oncology, detection at an early stage of development, this significantly increases the chances of recovery.
In some forms of disease, the indicator may remain unchanged. However, in children this analysis usually requires more attention. Because, for example, with the progression of hepatitis A in children, the norm is exceeded, but with hepatitis B, the thymol test gives normal results. It is also possible to increase the serum protein reaction after the child has had hepatitis. For these reasons, it is always recommended to additional diagnostics: one thymol test can lead down a false diagnostic path.
For preventive purposes, the described examination is not carried out, since it is not considered standard. biochemical analyzes blood. However, if there are indications for research, then many specialists, despite the possibilities modern medicine, in the form of immunological and other tests, while in the old-fashioned way they give preference to the thymol test, since the result of this type of diagnosis makes it possible to detect the disease in time and begin to treat it, avoiding complications.
To understand what kind of analysis this is, you need to understand its essence. The main part of the proteins in the blood is formed in the liver elements. They are responsible for many variable tasks:
- active participation in the regulation of blood clotting;
- maintaining oncotic pressure and ensuring the volume of the main body fluid;
- maintaining blood pH;
- transportation to tissues of certain categories of elements (for example, cholesterol).
Blood serum has a varied composition. However, only 5 protein fractions are considered important components. These are various globulins.
Under the influence of certain factors, their number may decrease or increase. For example, against the background of liver dysfunction or poor nutrition the number of albumins decreases sharply. An increase in globulins occurs in pathologies of connective tissue, infectious processes of various etiologies, some cancer diseases.
The thymol test is usually understood as a special biochemical study. It allows you to obtain information about the liver’s ability to carry out complete synthesis of protein fractions.
Conducting an analysis helps evaluate serious violations in the functioning of the body even before the occurrence initial signs any illness.
The principle of laboratory research is reduced to the precipitation of whey proteins. If cloudiness of the substance is observed, the test result is said to be positive. The degree of change in the appearance of the material is determined by the photocolorimetric method, and is expressed in the so-called Maclagan units (M units).
The physicochemical characteristics of this analysis remain poorly understood. However, scientists claim that when carrying out the reaction, complex complexes of phospholipids and globulins, thymol, and cholesterol are possible.
How to donate blood correctly
It is recommended to carry out a blood test in the morning. Approximately 8 hours before the intended procedure, it is better to follow a fasting diet. You are allowed to drink only regular still water. Should not be used in large quantities strong coffee or tea, juices.
Advantages of thymol test
When it comes to the liver, every person understands the importance of this organ. I can't imagine without his help full-time job body. Therefore, it is so important to periodically undergo preventive examinations and blood tests. It is the thymol test that is most often the main indicator of the quality of liver functioning.
Other advantages of this analysis include the following:
- does not require the use of expensive or complex equipment, material costs are insignificant;
- characterized by simplicity of execution;
- allows you to identify many ailments at an early stage, avoid complications and even death;
- can be used as a kind of indicator of ongoing therapy.
Standard indicators
The initial decoding of the sample is quite simple:
- If the analysis column contains 0-5 units, it should be considered negative. Such indicators indicate that there are no serious violations in the composition of the serum.
- When the result is more than 5 units, the test is considered positive. The norm for men, women and children is the same.
Decoding test results
As a rule, deciphering a sample does not cause any particular difficulties for qualified physicians. If the protein component of the serum is not accompanied by any serious changes, the result is said to be negative. In this case, the sample indicator should be less than 5 units.
A positive answer often indicates developing hepatitis. It is noteworthy that through this analysis it is possible to diagnose this serious illness even before it occurs. primary manifestations. A positive test is also possible when bilirubin and aminotransferases remain within the normal range.
The thymol test norm in children may be exceeded if they were previously diagnosed with hepatitis A. Group B pathology is rarely accompanied by an increase in the indicator relative to the norms accepted in medicine.
A positive test sometimes indicates that the young patient has already had hepatitis before. In this case, the test is considered a kind of beacon of the dynamics of normalization of liver function.
If obstructive jaundice progresses in an adult, the responses to the thymol test are most often negative. However, if complications occur in the form of parenchymal inflammation, the results may change.
Despite the possible errors, the thymol test is even today considered one of the most informative studies. You have to resort to his help quite often. The whole point is that it allows initial stages diagnose liver disorders and select appropriate therapy.
Exceeding standard indicators
An increase in indicators usually indicates developed dysproteinemia. This condition characterized by changes in the structure of whey at the protein level. At the same time, it is affected quality characteristics. These elements are expressed in 5 fractions. Each of them differs in both chemical and physical properties.
Albumins are among the most light fraction. It is characterized by the ability to maintain a stable state of the so-called colloid blood system. Globulins are slightly larger in mass and tend to precipitate.
A change in equilibrium in the colloidal system and the tendency of proteins toward inevitable coagulation can be caused by such disorders as:
- Reduction in the number of albumins.
- Increased concentration of alpha globulins.
- The presence of paraglobulins in the blood (they should be absent in a healthy person).
The listed pathologies can be identified precisely through the thymol test. The primary organ in which increased protein production usually occurs is the liver.
If there are significant malfunctions in its functioning, a change in blood characteristics is observed, and the thymol test shows an excess of certain parameters.
On the other hand, a positive analysis response is possible with extensive skin burns. Exceeding the globulin fraction is also diagnosed in infectious processes, autoimmune disorders and rheumatoid disorders.
Probable diseases
Several years ago, the main reasons for an increase in thymol test were considered solely from the point of view of liver dysfunction. Today, the opinions of scientists have changed dramatically. Now experts identify a number of diseases, the development of which accompanies the state of dysproteinemia.
Among them, the following are especially worth noting:
- Kidney dysfunction, characterized by loss of albumin protein through urine.
- Liver pathologies that manifest themselves as cirrhosis, hepatitis or neoplasms.
- Systemic rheumatoid diseases.
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract system.
- The presence of neoplasms of malignant etiology.
The thymol test is sometimes elevated due to poor nutrition. As a rule, this problem is diagnosed in women. Abuse excessively fatty foods may lead to changes in performance. That is why during diagnostic examination It is important to consider other blood testing options.
Common diseases of young patients
If a child’s thymol test is elevated, what does this mean? As a rule, such a result indicates the development of liver dysfunction.
Today, the following liver diseases are most often detected in young patients:
- Jaundice of newborns. It appears within a few hours after the baby is born. This pathology is characterized by yellow discoloration of the skin. Its development is due to the fact that by the time of birth the child’s liver has not had time to fully form. Therefore, she is not yet ready to perform all functions. Doctors call bilirubin among the main causes of the disease. It is formed against the background of the destruction of old red blood cells. If this pigment begins to accumulate in the baby’s body, the skin acquires the corresponding color. If the disease is diagnosed in a timely manner, it is possible to get rid of it without serious consequences within 7-10 days.
- Hepatitis groups A and E. Diseases of these types in young patients cause persistent disturbances in the functioning of the main systems of internal organs.
What are the signs to suspect a problem:
- First of all, the child begins to feel sick. Sometimes vomiting does not stop for several hours.
- Then painful sensations appear in the liver area.
- Feces are colored White color, and the urine becomes darker.
If these symptoms appear, you should immediately seek medical help.
After a comprehensive examination, the doctor will be able to make the correct diagnosis. Only after this is treatment prescribed. Therapy various forms hepatitis is carried out exclusively at home.
It is extremely important to isolate a sick child from his peers. The main sign of recovery is a good blood test and absence of pain.
prososud.ru
Advantages of thymol test
Usually the thymol test is in addition to bilirubin and enzymes(transaminases - AlT, AST, alkaline phosphatase) if damage to an organ is suspected, characterized by the variety of biochemical reactions occurring in it. Certainly, we're talking about about the liver, from normal functioning which in to a large extent depends on the implementation of basic life processes in all cells of a living organism. And what’s interesting is that these indicators may not yet particularly respond to pathological changes and therefore not exceed or slightly exceed the levels normal values, and the thymol test will clearly “creep” upward.
In addition to identifying liver abnormalities, a thymol test, the norm of which is from 0 to 4 S-H units, in other cases helps in diagnosing pathological conditions of the heart, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and other organs.
The main advantages of the thymol test are that it:
- Does not require special time and material costs, or the use of complex equipment (reagents are prepared on a magnetic stirrer in a fume hood);
- It is easy to perform (the result is read using an electrospectrophotometer, which is available in any laboratory);
- Allows you to start treatment early stages illness and thus helps to avoid unwanted complications caused by a prolonged inflammatory process;
- Can be used as a good performance indicator therapeutic activities, aimed at restoring the functional abilities of the liver tissue.
That is why, despite the wide variety of new laboratory tests, in some cases the thymol turbidity test remains among the main tests that identify pathological conditions of the liver.
Violation in the protein ratio is the basis of the thymol test
In cases of damage to the liver parenchyma a decrease in the albumin fraction promotes easier precipitation of the globulin fraction. Changes in the physicochemical properties of blood plasma proteins in various liver diseases are the basis for diagnostic sediment reactions, for example, the thymol test and the Veltman test.
The thymol test, having a fairly high sensitivity, gives positive result(up to 100%) in acute hepatitis, however special value it lies in the fact that a positive reaction is detected even in the pre-icteric period, as well as in anicteric forms of the disease (for example, in cases of hepatitis C, which is characterized by a mild onset).
Thus, the main characteristics of the test being studied can be presented as follows:
- Thymol test values are expressed in Shank-Hoaland thymol turbidity units (S-H units) or Maclagan units (M units);
- Normal values for thymol test results are in the range of 0 – 4 S-H units (some laboratories give the norm up to 5 S-H units);
- The norm of thymol test indicators in women and men does not differ - in a healthy body albumins, being in normal concentrations, provide globulin stability, therefore, the studied indicator, regardless of gender, will not exceed the normal limit.
Meanwhile, in women who are young and healthy, but use oral contraception, the thymol test may still be elevated. This is because these drugs affect the functional abilities of the liver, as a result of which the ratio of serum proteins changes, and, therefore, the values of this coagulation test increase.
In children, the values of normal indicators also range from 0 to 4 units S-H, however, with hepatitis A, which is more often “caught” by younger schoolchildren and adolescents, the thymol test is increased already at the initial stage of the disease, when even the slightest signs of jaundice are absent.
When results improve
In various liver diseases, attention is always drawn to a decrease in the albumin fraction, which is associated with a violation of their synthesis, and an increase in the gamma and beta globulin fractions. This happens because albumins are synthesized directly in liver cells, and the affected parenchyma is not able to provide normal level albumin. The simultaneous increase in globulin fractions (with a decrease in albumin concentration) is explained by the fact that other components - cells included in the tissue macrophage system - are predominantly responsible for the production of these proteins.
The main reasons causing an elevated thymol test are liver diseases accompanied by damage to its parenchyma:
- Infectious and viral hepatitis;
- Neoplasms localized in the liver;
- Damage to the liver parenchyma by alcohol and, especially, its surrogates;
- Toxic effects of various poisons, heavy metals and some medicines;
- Cirrhosis of the liver;
- Fatty degeneration of liver tissue (fatty hepatosis) – accumulation of fat in hepatocytes (liver cells);
- Functional disorders caused by long-term use oral contraceptives and others hormonal drugs.
However, regarding the liver, it should be noted that obstructive jaundice, although frightening with its external manifestations, in itself does not expand the boundaries of thymol turbidity. This test will be increased only if liver tissue is involved in the pathological process and parenchymal hepatitis develops.
Other causes of increased thymol test:
- Severe kidney pathology (amyloidosis, pyelo- or glomerulonephritis), in which a large amount of protein is constantly excreted in the urine;
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (pancreatitis, enteritis with severe diarrhea);
- Tumor processes of benign and malignant nature of various localizations;
- Pathological conditions caused by viral infection;
- Hereditary dysproteinemia (violation of the ratio of serum proteins);
- Myeloma;
- Systemic diseases (SLE - systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid polyarthritis, dermatomyositis);
- Septic endocarditis (with rheumatism, the test is not elevated, it remains within normal limits);
- Malaria.
The thymol test can be elevated even in the absence of illness - for example, if a person is overly fond of fatty foods. In this case, prosperity will also not last indefinitely. Another problem will arise - high cholesterol, change in lipid spectrum... Low-density lipoproteins accumulated in the blood will begin to deposit on the walls blood vessels, form atherosclerotic plaques, which, in turn, will give rise to such a pathological process as atherosclerosis. That is, a constantly elevated thymol test and the absence of clinical manifestations of the disease indicate that an urgent need to change the diet.
Let's try to decipher it ourselves
Decoding the analysis is simple and accessible even to the patient himself: all you need to know is the laboratory for upper limit the norm takes 4 or 5 units of S-H. And the range of diseases accompanied by an increased thymol test is not so wide.
When deciphering the analysis, you should not judge the quantitative ratio of proteins on your own. One can only assume that for some reason less albumin is synthesized. In order to find out these indicators in digital terms, other studies should be carried out: determine the concentration of total protein and albumin, isolate protein fractions using electrophoresis, calculate the albumin-globulin coefficient... And if the doctor considers it necessary, these reactions will be performed, and the reader only has to understand that a diagnosis cannot be established based on one nonspecific analysis. In the body, all biochemical processes are interconnected, and the same is true in the laboratory: one test involves the parallel conduct of other studies.
And the last thing: so that decoding does not cause difficulties and anxiety, it is necessary (as always) to properly prepare for the study. And everything is as simple as always: blood is taken from a vein on an empty stomach, and during dinner the day before, fatty foods are excluded.
sosudinfo.ru
What does elevated sample mean?
The main reasons that cause an increase in the thymol test are liver diseases accompanied by damage to its parenchymal tissue:
- hepatitis of an infectious or viral nature;
- malignant or benign formations located in the liver;
- damage to parenchymal tissue by alcoholic beverages;
- negative effects of toxic substances;
- cirrhosis;
- pyelonephritis and other diseases accompanied by loss of albumin;
- genetically determined protein synthesis disorders;
- gastrointestinal diseases;
- rheumatoid pathologies;
- accumulation of fat in liver cells;
- failure of the liver, which is caused by taking hormonal drugs or oral contraception.
You should know that jaundice does not affect the thymol test in any way. It will be increased only when liver tissue is involved in the process of liver dysfunction and hepatitis develops.
Previously, in medicine it was believed that a positive result of the thymol test only indicated liver damage. It has now been established that there are other pathogenic conditions in which dysproteinemia occurs.
Thymol test
So, normal analysis usually supplemented by bilirubin and enzyme testing if there is any suspicion of organ malfunction. Unlike other diagnostic methods, the thymol test is able to clearly determine the level of normal values.
First of all, the advantages of this test are as follows:
- A blood test for the thymol test is inexpensive, as it does not require special costs with instruments.
- Quite quickly and easily determined using special equipment.
- This study makes it possible to begin treatment of the disease at the development stage, which helps to avoid many complications. They occur quite often during the development of the inflammatory process.
- Used as a determinant in liver restoration.
These conditions show that the thymol test is very effective, although it was discovered by scientists quite a long time ago.
Carrying out
For the thymol test to be most accurate, blood should be taken in the morning before meals. It is recommended to fast for 8 hours or more before the test. During these hours, you are allowed to drink only purified water, but not other liquids.
The patient’s blood serum is added to the buffer solution, as well as a solution of a substance called “thymol”. The mixture is left for half an hour and the degree of cloudiness of the solution is determined using the photocolorimetric method. The presence of turbidities depends on the state of the medium in which the reaction was carried out and on the degree of stability of the protein formations.
Reaction conditions include:
- behavior of the buffer solution;
- acidity;
- temperature of thymol solution;
- purity of the solution.
Decoding
You need to know that the thymol test can only confirm or refute the presence of any disorders of the proteins that make up the plasma.
Interpreting the sample is quite simple: with normal protein composition blood serum this analysis shows negative results and is limited to less than 5 units.
There are several diseases for which the thymol test is the main diagnostic tool. Most often, such a biochemical study is required to determine hepatitis at an early stage, since at this stage jaundice does not yet appear, and the level of bilirubin and aminotransferase is within the acceptable range.
An essential feature of the thymol test is the determination of hepatitis in children: with hepatitis A it is always positive, but with the B form of hepatitis it is within normal limits. A positive thymol test allows us to judge that hepatitis has already occurred in a given organism, and then we can make predictions about liver repair. Therefore, the diagnosis should be clarified by performing additional serological tests.
In adults with obstructive jaundice, the test results are negative. The analysis shows a positive result if the pathology is complicated by inflammation of the liver parenchyma.
The interpretation of the sample in this study should depend on the following factors:
- age;
- weight;
- content of certain globulins;
- time of conduct (in the morning before eating in a specialized vacuum system, does not contain coagulants);
- It should also be taken into account that drugs with hepatotoxic effects can affect the result of the study (the normal level of thymol test in the blood of women may vary when taking contraceptives).
You need to know that the thymol test continues to be used along with modern diagnostic methods. This is due high ability to detect diseases of the liver and other organs.
Protein imbalance
Damage to the liver parenchyma reduces the content of albumin and increases the amount of globulins. Physico-chemical aspects blood proteins can fluctuate only when exposed to pathogenic processes, and this is widely used in all kinds of diagnostic studies.
The most main feature This study shows a positive result for hepatitis before the onset of jaundice, as well as for other forms of hepatitis.
The main components of this analysis are as follows:
- the indicator is expressed in units and determines the degree of turbidity;
- normalized analysis indicators are defined from 0 to 4 units (sometimes up to 5);
- female and male study indicators are no different from each other: albumins should support globulins. That is why the thymol test and its studied norm do not fluctuate depending on gender; in women it coincides with men.
In young children in good condition the indicator ranges from 0 to 4 units. With hepatitis A, the test rises above 5 units and indicates the presence of the disease.
boleznikrovi.com
Thymol test: the essence of the method
This is a sedimentary reaction, which is designed to identify a violation of the protein-synthesizing function of the liver. It is sensitive to disturbances in the relationship or balance between the globulin fraction and albumin.
In most liver diseases, which are accompanied by a decrease in the ability to synthesize protein structures, the thymol test is increased. But there are other reasons that may affect the results of the study:
- protein-losing nephrotic syndrome;
- systemic diseases;
- autoimmune pathology;
- connective tissue diseases.
Only an adequate comprehensive approach to the problem will allow an adequate assessment of the test results and the situation as a whole.
How is the analysis carried out?
First of all, the patient should be explained the essence of the procedure and its purpose. The thymol test, like other sedimentary methods, is used to assess the protein-synthesizing function of the liver. In liver failure, this ability of hepatocytes is lost to varying degrees.
The patient comes to the laboratory on an empty stomach in the morning, where venous blood is collected. It is important that he does not eat food 6-8 hours before the test. Avoid drinking alcohol several days before the test and using caffeine-containing drinks.
The blood serum of the subject is added to a special solution with known acidity ( pH value equals 7.8). The volume of thymol is 5-7 ml. It is dissolved in the veronal buffer system. Thymol is not an acid, but is a member of a group of cyclic compounds called phenols. When binding to globulins (their excess), cholesterol, phospholipids under conditions of known acidity, the test solution becomes cloudy. The degree of turbidity is assessed using the colorimetric or nephelometric method. It is compared with the turbidity of a barium sulfate solution, taken as unity. When the results of the thymol test are assessed, the normal values vary from 0 to 5 units.
Interpretation of results
The test results in the conclusion of the laboratory doctors look like in the following way: the sample is positive or the sample is negative. Sometimes an indication of the degree of increase is possible. Expressed in the number of “crosses” or units (with a norm of 0 to 5).
The thymol test is elevated in liver diseases associated with an inflammatory component. These are viral and toxic hepatitis, cholestatic organ lesions. Usually, in the case of acute damage to hepatocytes due to the cytopathic (cell-destroying) effect of viruses, the test is sharply positive. If chronic hepatitis occurs, the results of the thymol test may be within normal limits or slightly elevated.
Fibrosis and cirrhosis may also increase the likelihood of a positive sediment test. Damage to the liver by toxic products and drugs also reduces its protein-synthesizing function due to cell necrosis. Albumin synthesis decreases, while globulin fractions appear in high concentrations (relative to albumin).
Other conditions causing a positive result
The reasons for the decrease in albumin levels compared to globulins are not only liver pathology. 
There are a number of diseases and conditions that can cause these study results.
First, nephrotic syndrome should be excluded. It is caused by diabetic, uremic nephropathy, and various options glomerulonephritis. Urine and blood tests with an assessment of the biochemical profile confirm the guesses.
The next group of reasons is autoimmune diseases and connective tissue diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus (as well as lupus nephritis), scleroderma, Sjögren's syndrome, and polymyalgia are excluded. To do this, the doctor prescribes tests for immunological markers.
Often a positive result is observed with malignant tumors. This occurs in the so-called paraneoplastic syndrome.
Disadvantages of the method
The advantage of the analysis is that it is very sensitive. At the same time, performing a thymol test is relatively inexpensive. But there are disadvantages.
They are associated with low specificity. That is, if the study result is positive, it is impossible to talk about any specific pathology. The groups of reasons causing an increase in the colorimetric characteristics of a solution are listed above. It is worth noting that the list is quite impressive.
Sediment tests are more used to confirm the fact of impaired liver function. In addition to thymol, it is used sublimate test. Its principle is based on the phenomenon of flocculation. The reagent is mercuric chloride salt - sublimate. If there is an excess of blood serum globulins, flakes are visible in the test tube - a sediment. The test is considered positive. But talk about some specific disease she cannot, just like thymol.
When examining a patient, it is important for the doctor to understand the meaning of prescribing tests. When a positive thymol test is detected, it becomes clear that there is most likely a liver dysfunction. But at the same time, other pathologies can also manifest themselves this way. This is a reason to think about it and draw up an adequate plan for further diagnostics.
healthyorgans.ru
What it is
The thymol test is considered a highly specialized blood test. Its second name is Maclagan's test. With its help, the condition of the liver is assessed, or rather its ability to produce blood plasma protein. In addition, the doctor, based on the sample, evaluates protein fraction ratio, which makes it possible to identify some diseases and even predict them before noticeable symptoms appear.
The blood proteins themselves are divided into two general groups, which also have their own subsections:
- globulins;
- albumins.
With the help of the above proteins, regulation occurs acid-base balance blood plasma, changing the rate of coagulation, maintaining the required volume, as well as transporting components of medicinal substances and other compounds.
The sample is studied based on the rate of protein sedimentation. For this reason, it is classified as coagulation biochemical studies. A test is carried out when adding special solution to the resulting serum. As a result, a chemical reaction is observed.
The thymol test is considered an outdated type of test, but is still used in some laboratories. It is prescribed mainly when it is necessary to identify:
- hepatitis type A;
- drug intoxication;
- lupus erythematosus;
- other diseases.
Normal for women
Normal test results depend on the correctness of the tests. This must be done on an empty stomach in the morning, but you are allowed to drink water before the test. When applying the study against the background drug therapy
, before the test, you should notify your doctor about the use of medications so that he can make an adjustment for distortion of the results.
In women, the normal thymol test is up to 5 units M. However, with dysproteinemia and taking oral contraceptives, the norm increases. If the indicator is elevated outside of these conditions, then there is a high probability of liver failure. The test itself allows you to identify the stability of proteins, and depending on the indicators, health problems are identified.
An increase in the indicator may not be diagnosed with obstructive jaundice, only when the disease progresses to a more serious stage and when inflammation develops can the problem be diagnosed.
In addition to jaundice, the absence of a positive result of the thymol test can be observed when the natural ratio of alpha and beta globulins differs, or in the presence of significant amounts of excess or insufficient weight.
It is worth noting that if a person develops hepatitis B, the thymol test does not give a positive result, since its result will vary from 1 to 5 units M., this is not a deviation from normal indicators.
Promoted
If the test result is positive, liver damage is diagnosed. Today, a positive test result is also observed in diseases of the kidneys, digestive system, and the appearance of malignant neoplasms. Due to inaccuracy in diagnosing the disease, it is necessary to carry out additional research, allowing to identify exact reason deviations of the thymol test from the norm.
The gradual accumulation of lipoproteins will contribute to their deposition in blood vessels and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Their formation contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Thus, if the result of the thymol test is elevated, but there are no clinical manifestations of the disease, then it is urgently necessary change your diet.
Causes
An increase in sample values may be caused by the following reasons:
- kidney diseases;
- large area burns;
- strict diets;
- genetics;
- frequent consumption of fatty foods;
- systemic diseases;
- endocarditis;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- rheumatoid diseases;
- myeloma;
- pancreatitis;
- energite;
- hepatitis;
- various types of neoplasms in liver tissue;
- damage to the liver parenchyma by alcohol substitutes or alcohol;
- poisoning by poisons, metals, drugs;
- cirrhosis;
- fatty damage to liver tissue;
- long-term use of hormonal drugs;
- liver diseases of various etymologies.
It is the last point that most often leads to increase indicators samples. However, to calculate an accurate diagnosis, it is recommended to visit a doctor and get prescriptions for treatment.
In order for the research results to be as reliable as possible, it is necessary to first prepare for the test. A week before the test, it is recommended to follow a diet with limited consumption fats and sugar. The day before the study, you must give up coffee, tea, and alcohol.
The sample itself is taken in morning time on an empty stomach, for this reason it is not recommended to eat food 12 hours before the test. In the morning you can only drink water in limited quantities, and you cannot eat anything.
Treatment
When the thymol test increases, the most common cause is liver disease. For this reason, in order to normalize the analysis parameters, it is first necessary to accurately identify the cause of the change in the state of blood proteins. And depending on the diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe appropriate treatment.
However, in addition to this, if the thymol test indicators increase, it is necessary to adhere to a special diet. It consists of limiting the patient’s consumption of fatty foods, regardless of whether they are of animal or plant origin.
In addition, it is necessary to exclude fast carbohydrates, some sour fruits, citrus fruits, tomatoes, soups based on meat or fish, and broths from the diet.
