**Core Concept**
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is characterized by a spectrum of liver damage, ranging from fatty liver to cirrhosis, due to chronic alcohol consumption. The pathophysiology involves the metabolism of alcohol, leading to the formation of toxic intermediates that cause liver cell injury.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Option C, ↑ S.LDH (Serial Lactate Dehydrogenase), is a true statement in the context of alcoholic liver disease. Elevated S.LDH levels indicate liver cell injury, which is a hallmark of ALD. The liver is the primary site of S.LDH production, and its levels increase in response to liver cell damage. In ALD, the liver's ability to regenerate is impaired, leading to a rise in S.LDH levels. This is a specific marker for liver damage, making it a useful diagnostic tool.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** AST/ALT ratio of 5500/L is not a valid measurement. The AST/ALT ratio is typically used to assess liver damage, but a ratio of 5500/L is an extremely high value, far exceeding the normal range. This is likely an error in measurement.
**Option B:** There is no direct correlation between AST/ALT levels and the diagnosis of ALD. While elevated AST and ALT levels can indicate liver cell injury, they are not specific markers for ALD.
**Option D:** Liver span is not directly related to the diagnosis of ALD. Liver span is a measure of the liver's size, which can be affected by various conditions, including cirrhosis. However, it is not a specific marker for ALD.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In patients with suspected ALD, a high S.LDH level (> 250 IU/L) is a strong indicator of liver cell injury, warranting further investigation and diagnosis. This is a useful clinical correlation to remember.
**Correct Answer: C. ↑ S.LDH**
Free Medical MCQs · NEET PG · USMLE · AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.