Liver function tests (LFTs), also called a liver panel or hepatic panel, are blood tests that assess the health and functionality of the liver. These tests measure various enzymes, proteins, and substances the liver produces or processes. They help determine if the liver is functioning properly and identify potential liver damage or disease. 

What are the common liver function tests?

• ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine transaminase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), and GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase): Enzymes primarily produced in the liver. 

• Bilirubin: A waste product created when red blood cells are broken down, processed by the liver. 

• Prothrombin time (PT): Measures how long it takes blood to clot, with prothrombin being a protein produced by the liver. 

• Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): An enzyme found in various tissues, with significant amounts in the liver. 

• Albumin: A protein produced by the liver. 
• Total protein: Measures the overall amount of protein in the blood, including albumin and globulins. 

Why are liver function tests done?

• Diagnosing and monitoring liver disease: LFTs can help identify and track the progress of conditions like hepatitis or alcoholic liver disease. 

• Assessing the effectiveness of treatment: LFTs can monitor how well a treatment for liver disease is working. 

• Checking for potential liver damage from medications: Some medications can affect the liver, and LFTs can help detect this. 

• Evaluating overall liver health: LFTs can provide a general assessment of the liver's function. 

Interpreting liver function test results: 

• Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT):

  May indicate liver inflammation or damage, or in some cases, muscle damage. 

• High bilirubin:

  Can indicate a blockage in the bile ducts or a problem with the liver's ability to process bile. 

• Low albumin:

  May suggest liver dysfunction or other conditions like malnutrition. 

• Prothrombin time (PT) or INR:

  A prolonged PT or INR may indicate impaired liver function, as the liver produces proteins needed for blood clotting. 

In summary, LFTs are a valuable tool for assessing liver health, diagnosing liver diseases, and monitoring treatment effectiveness. 

• Liver function tests - Mayo Clinic

  18 Jan 2025 — Liver function tests are blood tests used to help find the cause of your symptoms and monitor liver disease or damage.

  

  Mayo Clinic

  

• Liver Function Tests: MedlinePlus Medical Test

  5 Dec 2023 — What are liver function tests? Liver function tests (also called a liver panel) use a sample of your blood to measure se...

  

  MedlinePlus

  

• Liver Function Tests - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

  The liver function tests typically include alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

  

  NCBI

  

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This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses may include mistakes.