What does thymol test mean? Thymol test - what is it? Thymol test: norm and diagnostic value. What to do with an increased thymol test

What is a thymol test? An analogue of the name of the sample: thymoloveralic, thymol haze and McLagan. It is a study of blood serum for the ratio and content of proteins (albumin and globulins) in a complex biochemical analysis.

Such a test is rarely used in modern medicine, since many much more informative examination methods have been developed that can replace it. But for the early diagnosis of pathologies that caused the imbalance of proteins, such an analysis is unmatched. This is due to the fact that the indicators of the thymoveronal test increase in the preclinical period, when all the others are still within acceptable limits, which makes it possible to start treatment faster.

What is a thymol test, a role in a biochemical blood test

In practice, the indicators of the McLagan test are always accompanied by obtaining information on the concentration of bilirubin and enzymes (transaminases - ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase) to detect liver dysfunction. What does the thymol test show?

This assay detects an abnormal response of gamma and beta globulins (as well as LDL) to thymol in Veronal buffer, which manifests itself as precipitation and cloudiness of the solution. This process is typical with a low concentration of albumin, synthesized directly by the hepatic parenchyma, against the background of an increased content of globulins, which are produced in tissue macrophages. With the thymoveronal test, the turbidity index of the solution is assessed, for which an electric photocolorimeter is used.

The decoding of the McLagan test is the production of complex compounds of the globulin-timololipid type during the reaction, where 40% are globulins, 32% are thymol, 18% are cholesterol and 10% are phospholipids. Changes in these values in any direction indicate the inability of the liver to synthesize proteins for blood plasma. Therefore, a positive test result, based on the speedy sedimentation of less heavy globulins, may mean damage to the liver parenchyma.

Venous blood analysis

Who is the thymol test assigned to?

The McLaghan test is prescribed if there are certain indications for it. We are talking about liver pathologies: hepatitis (more often viral), drug toxicosis, alcohol poisoning and other hepatic pathologies.

Important! The thymolveronal reaction is used not only to diagnose liver dysfunction. It is successfully used to detect diseases of the heart, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and other organs.

An analysis can also be prescribed in case of failures in the work of other body systems, which are characterized by an increase in the indicator. These include people who are sick:

rheumatoid arthritis;
chronic inflammatory diseases of the spine and joints;
lupus erythematosus (autoimmune lesions of connective tissues and capillaries);
pancreatitis;
kidney disease;
oncology.

The thymol opacification technique is also used to control the restoration of functions and regeneration of liver tissue following the results of the therapy. Above normal, the indicator is kept for six months after hepatitis.

Thymol test: norm

The thymol test is taken in the morning on an empty stomach. At the same time, it is not recommended to drink anything a couple of hours before the procedure, and from 20-00 the previous day - not to eat, but to drink only clean non-carbonated water in small quantities. If a person is taking any medications, they must be temporarily abandoned or the doctor must be informed about their intake. The correct determination of the concentration of serum proteins depends on compliance with these conditions.

Next, to the biological material taken from the vein, add veronal-medinal buffer in an amount of 6 ml and a concentrated solution of thymol in an amount of 0.1 ml. After half an hour, the material obtained is examined for the degree of turbidity and coagulation. The result is displayed in Shank-Hoaland thymol haze units (S-H units) or McLagan units (M units).

The thymol test is the norm in men and women in the blood has the same values: from 0 to 4 units. M (some laboratories allow a score from 0 to 5). Age also does not affect the rate, since a healthy liver produces enough albumin to ensure the stability of globulins, and thymol haze was within acceptable values.

But even in healthy young women, a change in the McLagan test is possible: oral contraceptives, which affect the functioning of the liver, can increase the rate.

Thymol test norm table for biochemistry in a child

Important! Thymol test values in children, the norm of which also ranges from 0 to 4 units. S-H, may increase more often, as babies and older adolescents are more susceptible to viral hepatitis A than adult men and women.

Thymol test is increased: causes

Any pathology of the liver tissue associated with dysproteinemia syndrome can cause an increase in the index in the test. The reasons for the sedimentation and turbidity of proteins in the blood can be manifestations:

viral hepatitis;
tumor processes in the liver;
poisoning of the parenchyma with alcohol-containing drinks;
cirrhosis;

Cirrhosis of the liver

intoxication with poisons, regardless of their origin, metals and medications;
individual intolerance or excessive use of oral contraceptives and other hormonal (steroid) medications;
transformation of liver cells caused by the accumulation of fats in them (fatty hepatosis).

Degradation of the liver with fatty hepatosis

It is worth noting that McLaghan's test clearly shows hepatitis of viral origin, but may not respond to obstructive jaundice, which is triggered by blockage of the choleretic ducts. This indicates that the parenchyma cells, which are responsible for the production of albumin, are not involved in the icteric process.

A positive reaction to the test can be caused by such diseases:

severe renal pathologies leading to the withdrawal of a large amount of protein with urine (amyloidosis, glomerulonephritis or pyelonephritis);
neoplasms (benign and malignant), regardless of the place of formation;
diseases of the digestive tract (enteritis and pancreatitis, aggravated by severe diarrhea);
diseases caused by a viral infection;
myeloma;
hereditary pathologies associated with disruptions in the concentration of proteins in serum;
septic endocarditis;
systemic disorders (lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatomyositis);
malaria.

Thymol clouding can be triggered by the abuse of too fatty foods.

It is important to remember that an increase in the thymol test is not enough to diagnose liver disease. Additionally, data on bilirubin, transaminase, cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, zinc sulfate or sublimate test and other examination methods will be required. And only when the diagnosis is confirmed, it is possible to start treating the disease with traditional drug or surgical therapy, as well as folk remedies.

Thymol test one of the sedimentary (coagulation) samples, based on a change in the stability of serum proteins, which is noted in various diseases accompanied by dysproteinemia - a change in the ratio of serum proteins.

Blood proteins normally have high colloidal stability, but when the ratio of the globulin and albumin fractions changes, the protein stability decreases. When the thymol reagent is added to the sample, the proteins precipitate, that is, with a positive result, the test serum becomes cloudy. The more the colloidal properties of proteins are disturbed, the greater the degree of turbidity.

Thymol test rate in men and women

Normally (the test result is negative), the thymol test in men and women is in the range of 0-5 units. M (McLaghan units). This means that there are no abnormalities in the composition of blood serum proteins;
If the result of the thymol test exceeds 5 units. M, such violations take place.

The thymol test is of great importance in the early stages, when the first signs of its defeat are still absent. This test is important for diagnosing viral hepatitis or identifying erased forms of the disease.

Excess thymol test

Thymol test is significantly increased in hepatitis, as well as in liver cirrhosis, when liver cells are replaced by connective tissue;
In hepatitis due to chronic alcoholism, heavy metal poisoning, drugs (antihistamines, antitumor, antidiabetic, diuretics, hormonal, antibiotics and antidepressants), the liver stops synthesizing proteins normally, therefore the thymol test is also positive;
In the early stages of obstructive jaundice, caused by a violation of the outflow of bile, the thymol test is usually negative, but with a long process, the liver tissue is affected, and it becomes positive;
The thymol test is positive for hepatitis provoked by such infectious diseases as mononucleosis, leptospirosis, brucellosis, as well as for acute fatty atrophy of the liver, autoimmune hepatitis, liver tumors;
The thymol test is positive not only in cases of liver damage. accompanied by nephrotic syndrome, it is also increased;
This indicator is recorded with an increase in systemic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatomyositis, periarteritis nodosa, hemorrhagic vasculitis;
In addition, an increase in thymol test is noted in pancreatitis,

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. A specialist consultation is required!

Biochemical blood test- This is a laboratory method for the study 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, even the most insignificant, change in the biochemical parameters of blood indicates that a certain internal organ is not coping with its functions. The results of a biochemical blood test are used by doctors in almost every field of medicine. They help to establish the correct clinical diagnosis of the disease, determine the stage of its development, as well as prescribe and correct treatment.

Preparation for the test

Biochemical analysis requires special preliminary preparation of the patient. Meals are taken at least 6 - 12 hours before the blood test. This is based on the fact that any food product is capable of influencing blood counts, thereby changing the test result, which in turn can lead to incorrect diagnosis and treatment. Also, it is worth limiting fluid intake. The intake of alcohol, sweet coffee and tea, milk, fruit juices is 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 cubital vein. To do this, a special tourniquet is applied a little above the elbow bend, then a needle is inserted directly into the vein and blood is taken ( approx. 5 ml). After that, the blood is placed in a sterile test tube, on which the patient's data must be indicated, and only after that it is sent to the biochemical laboratory.

Indicators of protein metabolism

Blood indicators:
Total protein - displays the protein content in blood serum. Total protein levels can increase with various liver diseases. A decrease in the amount of protein is observed with insufficient nutrition, depletion of the body.

Normally, the level of total protein varies with 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 old - 58 - 76 g / l
in adults - 65 - 85 g / l

Albumen - a simple protein, soluble in water, accounting for about 60% of all serum proteins. The level of albumin decreases with liver pathologies, burns, injuries, kidney diseases ( nephritic syndrome), insufficient nutrition, in the last months of pregnancy, with malignant tumors. The amount of albumin increases with dehydration of the body, as well as after taking vitamin BUT (retinol). The normal content of serum albumin is 25 - 55 g / l in children under the age of 3 years, in adults - 35 - 50 g / l. Albumin ranges from 56.5 to 66.8%.

Globulin - a simple protein, readily soluble in dilute saline solutions. Globulins in the body increase in the presence of inflammatory processes and infections in it, and decrease in immunodeficiency. The normal content of globulins is 33.2 - 43.5%.

Fibrinogen - a colorless blood plasma protein produced in the liver, which plays an important role in hemostasis. The level of fibrinogen in the blood increases with acute inflammatory processes in the body, infectious diseases, burns, surgical interventions, taking oral contraceptives, myocardial infarction, stroke, renal amyloidosis, hypothyroidism, and malignant neoplasms. An increased level of fibrinogen can be observed during pregnancy, especially in the last months. The level of fibrinogen decreases after the consumption of fish oil, anabolic hormones, androgens, etc. The normal content of fibrinogen in newborns is 1.25 - 3 g / l, in adults - 2 - 4 g / l.

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. Norm 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 - the type of sediment sample 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 BUT, toxic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, malaria.

Sublimate test - sedimentary sample used in the functional study of the liver. The norm is 1.6 - 2.2 ml. The test is positive for some infectious diseases, parenchymal liver diseases, neoplasms.

Veltman test - colloidal-sedimentary reaction for the study of liver function. Norm 5 - 7 tube.

Formal test - a method designed to detect imbalance of proteins contained in the blood. Normally, the sample is negative.

Seromucoid - is an integral part of the protein-carbohydrate complex, participates in protein metabolism. The norm is 0.13 - 0.2 units. An increased seromucoid content indicates rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatism, tumors, etc.

C-reactive protein - the protein contained in the blood plasma is one of the acute phase proteins. Normally absent. The amount of C-reactive protein increases in the presence of 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 with acute inflammatory processes, the use of corticosteroids, rheumatic heart disease, nonspecific polyarthritis, lymphogranulomatosis, myocardial infarction ( large focal), collagenoses, nephrotic syndrome, tumors. The amount of haptoglobin decreases in pathologies accompanied by various types of hemolysis, liver diseases, enlarged spleen, etc.

Blood creatinine - is a product of protein metabolism. An indicator showing the work of the kidneys. Its content varies greatly depending on age. In children under 1 year old, the blood contains from 18 to 35 μmol / L of creatinine, in children from 1 to 14 years old - 27 - 62 μmol / L, in adults - 44 - 106 μmol / L. An increased content of creatinine is observed with muscle damage, dehydration of the body. Low levels are typical for fasting, vegetarian diets, pregnancy.

Urea - produced in the liver as a result of protein metabolism. An important indicator for determining the functional work of the kidneys. The norm is 2.5 - 8.3 mmol / l. An increased content of urea indicates a violation of the excretory ability of the kidneys and a violation of the filtration function.

Indicators of pigment metabolism

Total bilirubin - yellow-red pigment, which is formed as a result of the breakdown of hemoglobin. The norm contains 8.5 - 20.5 μmol / l. The total bilirubin content is found in 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 - The norm is 9.3 - 37.2 μmol / l (up to 2%).

Sulfhemoglobin - Rate 0 - 0.1% of the total.

Indicators of carbohydrate metabolism

Glucose - is the primary source of energy in the body. The norm is 3.38 - 5.55 mmol / l. Elevated blood glucose ( hyperglycemia) indicates the presence of diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance, chronic diseases of the liver, pancreas and nervous system. The glucose level can decrease with increased physical exertion, pregnancy, prolonged fasting, some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract associated with impaired glucose absorption.

Sialic acid - The norm is 2.0 - 2.33 mmol / l. An increase in their number is associated with diseases such as polyarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.

Protein-related hexose - 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 mol%.

Lactic acid - a breakdown product of glucose. It is a source of energy necessary for the functioning of muscles, brain and 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 content is 3.9 - 5.2 mmol / L. An increase in its level can 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 cholesterol (HDL) - high density lipoproteins. 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 perform energetic and structural functions. Normally, the triglyceride content depends 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 old 0.45 - 1.53 mmol / l
20 - 25 years old 0.41 - 2.27 mmol / l
25 - 30 years old 0.42 - 2.81 mmol / l
30 - 35 years old 0.44 - 3.01 mmol / l
35 - 40 years old 0.45 - 3.62 mmol / l
40 - 45 years 0.51 - 3.61 mmol / L
45 - 50 years old 0.52 - 3.70 mmol / l
50 - 55 years old 0.59 - 3.61 mmol / l
55 - 60 years old 0.62 - 3.23 mmol / l
60 - 65 years 0.63 - 3.29 mmol / l
65 - 70 years 0.62 - 2.94 mmol / l

An increase in the level of triglycerides in the blood is possible in acute and chronic pancreatitis, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, obesity, cerebral thrombosis, gout, chronic renal failure, etc.

Phospholipids - The norm is 2.52 - 2.91 mmol / l

Unesterified fatty acids 400 - 800 μmol / l

Enzymes

ALAT - alanine aminotransferase. An enzyme required to determine the functional state of the liver. Normal blood levels are 28 -178 nkat / l. An increased content of ALAT is characteristic of myocardial infarction, lesions of the heart and somatic muscles.

ACAT - aspartate aminotransferase. The norm is 28 - 129 nkat / l. It increases with liver pathologies.

Lipase - an enzyme involved in the breakdown of lipids, synthesized by the pancreas. The norm is 0 - 190 units / ml. Lipase increases with pancreatitis, tumors, pancreatic cysts, chronic diseases of the gallbladder, renal failure, mumps, heart attack, peritonitis. Decreases - for any tumors, with the exception of pancreatic cancer.

Amylase - a digestive enzyme that breaks down starch synthesized by the pancreas and salivary glands. The norm of alpha-amylase is 28 - 100 U / L, pancreatic amylase - 0 - 50 U / L. The level rises with pancreatitis, pancreatic cysts, diabetes mellitus, cholecystitis, abdominal trauma, abortion.

Alkaline phosphatase - an enzyme that affects the metabolism of phosphoric acid and is involved in the transfer of phosphorus in the body. The norm for women is up to 240 units / l, for men up to 270 units / l. The level of alkaline phosphatase increases in various bone diseases, rickets, multiple myeloma, hyperparathyroidism, infectious mononucleosis, and liver diseases. Its decrease is characteristic of hypothyroidism, bone growth disorders,

Biochemical blood test- This is a laboratory method for studying 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, even the most insignificant, change in the biochemical parameters of blood indicates that a certain internal organ is not coping with its functions. The results of a biochemical blood test are used by doctors in almost every field of medicine. They help to establish the correct clinical diagnosis of the disease, determine the stage of its development, as well as prescribe and correct treatment.

Preparation for the test:
Biochemical analysis requires special preliminary preparation of the patient. Meals are taken at least 6 - 12 hours before the blood test. This is based on the fact that any food product is capable of influencing blood counts, thereby changing the test result, which in turn can lead to incorrect diagnosis and treatment. Also, it is worth limiting fluid intake. The intake of alcohol, sweet coffee and tea, milk, fruit juices is 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 cubital vein. To do this, a special tourniquet is applied a little above the elbow bend, then a needle is inserted directly into the vein and blood is taken ( approx. 5 ml). After that, the blood is placed in a sterile test tube, on which the patient's data must be indicated, and only after that it is sent to the biochemical laboratory.

Indicators of protein metabolism:
Blood indicators:
Total protein - displays the protein content in blood serum. Total protein levels can increase with various liver diseases. A decrease in the amount of protein is observed with insufficient nutrition, depletion of the body.

Normally, the level of total protein varies with 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 old - 58 - 76 g / l
in adults - 65 - 85 g / l

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. Norm 7.3 - 12.5% (6.0 - 9.4 g / l).

Gamma globulins. Norm 12.8 - 19.0% (8.0 - 13.5 g / l).

Veltman test - colloidal-sedimentary reaction for the study of liver function. Norm 5 - 7 tube.

Formal test - a method designed to detect imbalance of proteins contained in the blood. Normally, the sample is negative.

Indicators of pigment metabolism:
Total bilirubin - yellow-red pigment, which is formed as a result of the breakdown of hemoglobin. The norm contains 8.5 - 20.5 μmol / l. The total bilirubin content is found in any type of jaundice.

Methemoglobin - The norm is 9.3 - 37.2 μmol / l (up to 2%).

Sulfhemoglobin - Rate 0 - 0.1% of the total.

Indicators of carbohydrate metabolism:
Glucose - is the primary source of energy in the body.

pma is 3.38 - 5.55 mmol / l. Elevated blood glucose ( hyperglycemia) indicates the presence of diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance, chronic diseases of the liver, pancreas and nervous system. The glucose level can decrease with increased physical exertion, pregnancy, prolonged fasting, some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract associated with impaired glucose absorption.

Sialic acid - The norm is 2.0 - 2.33 mmol / l. An increase in their number is associated with diseases such as polyarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.

Protein-related hexose - 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 mol%.

Lactic acid - a breakdown product of glucose. It is a source of energy necessary for the functioning of muscles, brain and 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 content is 3.9 - 5.2 mmol / L. An increase in its level can 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 cholesterol (HDL) - high density lipoproteins. 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 perform energetic and structural functions. Normally, the triglyceride content depends 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 old 0.45 - 1.53 mmol / l
20 - 25 years old 0.41 - 2.27 mmol / l
25 - 30 years old 0.42 - 2.81 mmol / l
30 - 35 years old 0.44 - 3.01 mmol / l
35 - 40 years old 0.45 - 3.62 mmol / l
40 - 45 years 0.51 - 3.61 mmol / L
45 - 50 years old 0.52 - 3.70 mmol / l
50 - 55 years old 0.59 - 3.61 mmol / l
55 - 60 years old 0.62 - 3.23 mmol / l
60 - 65 years 0.63 - 3.29 mmol / l
65 - 70 years 0.62 - 2.94 mmol / l

Phospholipids - The norm is 2.52 - 2.91 mmol / l

Unesterified fatty acids 400 - 800 μmol / l

Enzymes:

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Decoding thymol test

The interpretation of this biochemical research method is simple. If the protein composition of the blood serum is not disturbed, the result is negative and is 5 or less units. With dysproteinemia, the indicator will be more than 5 units.

Although a positive thymol test is accompanied by many diseases, it is most often significant for the early detection of hepatitis, in which jaundice is still absent, and the level of bilirubin and aminotransferases is normal.

The thymol test is always positive in children with hepatitis A, and with hepatitis B, the indicator is in the established norm. A positive thymol test indicates hepatitis that has already been transferred and the dynamics of the liver restoration process. To clarify the diagnosis, a serological blood test should be performed.

Another important pattern is that in adults, in 75% of cases of obstructive jaundice, the test results are also negative. They become positive when the pathological process is complicated by parenchymal inflammation of the liver.

When evaluating the results of the study, it should be remembered that the thymol test rate is determined by age, weight and a number of other factors (the content of alpha and gamma globulins, the inhibitory ability of beta-lipoproteins). The time of the analysis matters (blood sampling is carried out in the morning on an empty stomach in a special vacuum system without anticoagulants). The results of the study may be affected by the intake of hepatotoxic drugs, and in women, the rate may deviate due to the use of oral contraceptives.

However, despite the latest diagnostic methods, the thymol test makes it possible to timely identify and treat severe pathologies of the liver and other organs.

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The thymol test belongs to the category of analyzes that are not often used by themselves. Moreover, it is almost always included in the number of indicators of the standard biochemical blood test. This is due to the fact that the thymol test, the norm and deviations from it, indicate certain health problems, but it is not possible to diagnose the disease more accurately.

Thymol test - the norm in women in the blood

The rate of thymol blood sample in women and men is the same. This is an indicator from 0 to 5 units. Let's take a closer look at what this means.

Using a thymol test, you can check the stability of blood plasma proteins, this is a coagulation analysis. The fact is that blood serum contains several different protein fractions, and deviations in the composition may indicate serious health problems in one of the following areas:

liver disease;
kidney disease;
systemic rheumatoid manifestations;
diseases of the digestive system;
viral infections;
malignant and benign neoplasms;
multiple myeloma;
malaria;
hereditary protein metabolism disorders and much more.

All of these diseases are presented in descending order - from the most common to the rarest. As a rule, in 80% of cases, a positive thymol test indicates precisely liver disease.

The thymol blood sample rate demonstrates the absence of a reaction of the blood serum protein to the thymol solution. If the reaction occurs, turbidity of the laboratory material and the formation of flakes have formed, it means that the composition of the blood serum has been changed. This can be a decrease in the amount of albumin or an increase in globulins, or the appearance of special paraglobulins that are absent in the blood of a healthy person. As a result, the tendency of blood proteins to coagulation increases, colloidal stability fails and the proteins stick together and precipitate upon contact with an alcoholic thymol solution. The strength of the reaction is determined visually on a special scale. Indicators can be from 0 to 20 units.

Biochemical blood test - thymol test, norm and deviations

A blood test, indicating a violation of the thymol test norm, first of all gives grounds to check the health of the liver. It is this organ that is responsible for the protein composition of the blood and any deviation in its work leads to a positive test result. Until recently, the thymol test was used exclusively for diagnosing liver diseases, only in the 80s it was proved that this indicator also depends on other factors.

The thymol test rate will be exceeded for such diseases not related to liver functions:

pyelonephritis and some other types of nephritis;
amyloidosis of the kidneys;
rheumatoid arthritis;
lupus;
dermatomyositis;
pancreatitis and enteritis;
oncological diseases.

The doctor will have reason to suspect one of the listed diseases only if liver pathologies are excluded:

In order to be sure of the accuracy of the analysis, you should consciously approach the process of blood sampling. A week before the thymol test, it is recommended to switch to a diet with limited fat and sugar. The day before the analysis, you should stop drinking coffee and alcohol. The blood sample is taken from a vein, in the morning, on an empty stomach. 12 hours before the procedure, you must stop eating and slightly limit the amount of drinking. It is permissible to drink only clean water.

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Thymol test: the essence of the method

This is a sedimentary reaction, which is designed to reveal 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 parameters are increased. But there are other reasons that can affect the result of the study:

protein-losing nephrotic syndrome;
systemic diseases;
uutoimmune 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 in the morning on an empty stomach comes to the laboratory, where venous blood is taken. It is important that he does not eat 6-8 hours before the study. Exclude the intake of alcohol a few days before the study, the use of caffeinated beverages.

The patient's blood serum is added to a special solution with known acidity (pH is 7.8). The volume of thymol is 5-7 ml. It is dissolved in the Veronal buffer system. Thymol is not an acid; it is a representative of a group of cyclic compounds called phenols. When bound with globulins (their excess), cholesterol, phospholipids under conditions of known acidity, the test solution becomes cloudy. The degree of turbidity is assessed using a colorimetric or nephelometric method. It is compared with the turbidity of the barium sulfate solution, taken as a unit. When the results of the thymol test are evaluated, the norm indicators vary from 0 to 5 units.

Interpretation of results

The test results in the conclusion of the laboratory doctors are as follows: the sample is positive or the sample is negative. Sometimes an indication of the degree of enhancement is possible. Expressed in the number of "crosses" or units (at a rate of 0 to 5).

The thymol test is increased in liver diseases associated with an inflammatory component. These are viral and toxic hepatitis, cholestatic organ damage. Usually, in the case of acute damage to hepatocytes due to the cytopathic (cell-destroying) action of viruses, the test is sharply positive. If chronic hepatitis occurs, thymol test results may be normal or slightly elevated.

Fibrosis and cirrhosis can also increase the likelihood of detecting a positive sediment sample. Damage to the liver by toxic products, drugs also reduces its protein-synthesizing function due to cell necrosis. The synthesis of albumin decreases, while globulin fractions appear in high (relative to albumin) concentrations.

Other conditions that cause a positive result

The reasons for the decrease in the level of albumin in comparison with globulins are not only in the pathology of the liver. There are a number of diseases and conditions that can cause such research results.

Nephrotic syndrome should be ruled out first. It is caused by diabetic, uremic nephropathy, and various variants of glomerulonephritis. The guesses are confirmed by urine and blood tests with an assessment of the biochemical profile.

The next group of causes is autoimmune diseases and connective tissue diseases. Exclude systemic lupus erythematosus (as well as lupus nephritis), scleroderma, Sjogren's syndrome, polymyalgia. For this, the doctor prescribes tests for immunological markers.

Often, a positive result is observed in malignant tumors. This occurs in the so-called paraneoplastic syndrome.

Disadvantages of the method

The advantage of the assay is that it is very sensitive. At the same time, the thymol test is relatively inexpensive. But there are drawbacks.

They are associated with low specificity. That is, with a positive result of the study, it is impossible to talk about any specific pathology. The groups of reasons causing an increase in the colorimetric characteristics of the solution are listed above. It is worth noting that the list is quite impressive.

Sediment samples are more used to confirm the fact of impaired liver function. In addition to thymol, a sublimate test is used. Its principle is based on the phenomenon of flocculation. The reagent is mercury chloride salt - mercuric chloride. With an excess of blood serum globulins, flakes are visible in the test tube - a precipitate. The sample is considered positive. But she cannot talk about any specific disease, like thymol.

When examining a patient, it is important for a doctor to understand the meaning of prescribing tests. When a positive thymol test is detected, it becomes clear that liver dysfunction is most likely taking place. But at the same time, other pathologies can manifest themselves in this way. This is an occasion to think about and draw up an adequate plan for further diagnostics.

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What is it?

A biochemical test for synthesizing processes in the liver, as a rule, is performed if indicated. Many blood parameters depend on the work 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 compounds among themselves.

The examination is carried out in the laboratory by releasing the proteins of the blood serum, which is subsequently studied. After the separation of the whey protein, it becomes turbid. The thymol test value in the blood depends on the degree of the final change in the serum protein.

What should be the norm?

A blood test of a volume sample shows whether the indicator is normal or exceeded. The rate of thymol test in women is the same as in men. In some cases, certain individual characteristics of the organism may be taken into account. 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 pathology;

Kidney inflammation;

Rheumatoid diseases;

Viral infections;

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;

Other.

In most cases, if the thymol test is increased, then the pathological processes occur in the liver. In the case when the diagnosis is not confirmed, they begin to conduct examinations to exclude other diseases.

Reasons for false changes

If the test result shows that the norm for the level of the protein reaction is overestimated, then, as already mentioned, the liver is examined first. Until the eighties, this study was used exclusively to diagnose the condition of the liver; in recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the change in serum protein in pathologies and other organs.

A high indicator may also be the result of an incorrectly conducted study, therefore, several factors are taken into account when decoding:

Individual characteristics of the patient's body (weight, age, concomitant diseases, etc.);

Time and process of blood sampling (in the morning and only with special devices);

Reception of patients with hepatotoxic drugs.

In the blood of women, hormonal contraceptives, taken regularly, can increase the level of the indicator.

An amazing fact is that with jaundice, in more than half of cases, in an adult, the thymol test remains normal. However, when the disease causes complication, thymol increases dramatically.

Increased rate

The referral for the thymol test is given by the attending physician based on certain indicators. If it is revealed that the thymol test is increased, the patient can be sent for re-examination, or an additional examination is prescribed to confirm the preliminary diagnosis.

An increase in the indicator demonstrates the presence of a pathological process in the body, which indicates the likelihood of developing the following diseases:

Pyelonephritis, or another type of nephritis;

Rheumatoid arthritis;

Renal amyloidosis;

Enteritis;

Lupus;

Pancreatitis

Dermatomyositis.

When, according to the results of the study, an increased thymol test is determined, oncology may become the most unfavorable prognosis.

But before assuming the progression of pathologies of different organs, the specialist considers the likelihood of progression of liver diseases:

Jaundice;

Hepatitis;

Fatty hepatic atrophy;

Organ intoxication.

Sometimes re-analysis gives normal values. What does this mean - improper preparation for the delivery of an analysis or an error of a laboratory assistant when taking blood.

Decoding

Even in the case when there is an increase in the thymol test, the reasons are not always serious. This study is only to confirm or deny the reaction of whey protein. Therefore, it is impossible to make a diagnosis based on what the analysis shows.

Deciphering the obtained blood test result is simple. If the figure is not more than five in terms of indicators, then the thymol test is normal. However, if the level is higher than normal data, then you should undergo a full diagnosis, establish a diagnosis and begin treatment.

When, as a result of diagnostics, it is possible to reveal that the thymol test is increased, 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 is a significant increase in the chances of recovery.

In some forms of disease, the indicator may be unchanged. Moreover, in children, this analysis, as a rule, requires more attention. Since, 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 reaction of protein serum after the child has had hepatitis. For these reasons, it is always recommended to carry out additional diagnostics.

For preventive purposes, the described examination is not carried out, since it is not classified as a standard biochemical blood test. However, if there are indications for research, then many specialists, despite the possibilities of modern medicine, in the form of immunological and other tests, prefer the thymol test, since the result of this type of diagnosis allows detecting the disease in time and starting to treat it, avoiding complications.

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