Serum urea levels are a key indicator of kidney function, reflecting how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood. Urea is a byproduct of protein metabolism, and its concentration in the blood can reveal potential issues with kidney health. Normal serum urea levels generally range between 2.5 to 7.1 mmol/L, although these values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory. Elevated urea levels could indicate impaired kidney function, dehydration, or high protein intake, while low levels may suggest liver disease or malnutrition. A urea test is commonly paired with creatinine levels for a comprehensive kidney function assessment.

The Prothrombin Time (PT) test measures how long it takes for blood to clot. This test is crucial for assessing clotting disorders and ensuring proper coagulation, especially in people taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin or those with liver disease. A prolonged PT could indicate a bleeding disorder or vitamin K deficiency. PT is used to diagnose conditions like hemophilia or monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulants, ensuring patients are within a safe range for preventing blood clots without increasing the risk of excessive bleeding.

A serum folate test measures the level of folate (vitamin B9) in your blood. Folate is essential for red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, and overall cellular function. This test is often recommended when doctors suspect folate deficiency, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or anemia. It is particularly important for pregnant women to ensure healthy fetal development. Serum folate tests are also used to monitor conditions like malnutrition, malabsorption disorders, or chronic alcohol consumption, where folate absorption may be impaired.

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is an enzyme found in the liver, bile ducts, and pancreas. The GGT blood test measures the level of this enzyme in the blood, helping assess liver health. Elevated GGT levels can indicate liver damage or bile duct issues, often linked to conditions such as alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis, or bile duct obstruction. While GGT alone cannot diagnose specific liver conditions, it plays a vital role in liver function panels, particularly when combined with other liver enzymes like ALT and AST.