Below are common lab tests that may be used to diagnose problems with the digestive system in children:
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Albumin. A protein found in blood. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A below-normal albumin level may mean problems in the liver or kidneys, or malnutrition with protein loss.
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ALP (alkaline phosphatase or alk phos).An enzyme produced in the liver and bone. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A high level of ALP may mean liver disease or bone growth.
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ALT (alanine aminotransferase). An enzyme produced in the liver. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A high level of ALT may mean problems in the liver.
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Amylase. An enzyme produced in the salivary glands and pancreas that helps with digestion. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. An abnormal amylase level may mean problems in the pancreas or other gastrointestinal (GI) organs, including stomach or duodenal ulcers.
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AST (aspartate aminotransferase). An enzyme found in the liver, kidneys, heart and other muscles, and in blood cells and body tissue. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A high level of AST may mean problems in the liver.
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Bilirubin. A breakdown product of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in the blood. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A high level of bilirubin may mean liver disease or a problem with the red blood cells.
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BUN (blood urea nitrogen). Urea nitrogen is a product that forms when proteins are broken down. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A high BUN level may mean problems in the kidneys. A low BUN level may mean liver failure or nutrition problems, such as low protein.
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CBC (complete blood count). This test measures the amounts of different types of cells in the bloodstream. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. Abnormal results may mean a range of problems, including anemia (low red blood cell level), dehydration, and infection.
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Creatinine. A breakdown product of creatine, which is found in muscle tissue. To check it, a blood sample or urine sample is taken from your child. A high creatinine level may mean problems in the kidneys.
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CRP (C-reactive protein). A protein made by the liver when inflammation occurs. To check for it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. The presence of CRP may mean inflammatory disorders or infection.
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Fecal occult blood test. Checks for hidden (occult) blood in the stool. A stool sample is taken from your child and tested for blood. If occult blood is found, it suggests bleeding in the GI tract.
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GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase). An enzyme made mainly in the liver. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A high level of GGT may mean problems in the liver or bile ducts.
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Lipase. An enzyme made by the pancreas that helps break down fats. To check it, a blood sample is drawn from your child. A high level of lipase may mean problems in the pancreas.
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O&P (ova and parasite). This test checks for the presence of parasites in stool. Several stool samples are taken from your child. A positive result means a GI infection involving parasites.
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Stool culture. This test checks for the presence of abnormal bacteria in stool. A stool sample is taken from your child. A positive result means a GI infection involving bacteria.