Liver Function Tests : Liver function assessments are blood tests designed to measure various substances produced by your liver, encompassing proteins, enzymes, and bilirubin. Deviations in the levels of these substances, either elevated or reduced, can signify diverse liver-related disorders.

What do liver function tests entail?

Liver function tests are blood examinations designed to assess various substances generated by your liver. These measurements offer vital insights to your healthcare provider regarding the general condition and functionality of your liver. A liver panel typically analyzes multiple substances within a single blood sample, encompassing various enzymes, proteins, and byproducts.

What are the five primary liver function assessments?

The most prevalent liver tests are:

Liver enzymes test: This includes alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Elevated levels of these enzymes indicate liver injury.

Total protein test: Measuring protein levels in your blood. Since the liver synthesizes proteins, low levels may suggest suboptimal liver function.

Bilirubin test: Evaluating bilirubin levels, a waste product deposited by the liver into bile.

LDH test: Assessing levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), an enzyme present in various body tissues, including the liver.

Prothrombin Time (PT) test: Determines the time taken for blood clotting, a process reliant on liver-produced proteins.

These tests collectively form part of a routine blood panel known as a comprehensive metabolic panel.

When are assessments conducted to evaluate liver function?

Your healthcare provider may opt to assess these values to screen for potential hepatitis or other liver ailments. If liver disease is already diagnosed, these tests may be conducted to track its progression or the effectiveness of treatment. Additionally, liver tests may be performed to monitor the potential side effects of certain medications known to impact liver function.

Test Details

How do liver function tests work?

A healthcare provider extracts a small blood sample from a vein in your arm for laboratory testing. They will examine the sample for abnormal levels of various substances, aiming to detect deviations that may indicate liver dysfunction. Comparing levels of different enzymes or proteins can provide insights into liver health. An imbalance in these levels can aid in understanding potential liver issues more comprehensively.