which blood tests are for liver function

What is the normal range of liver function tests?

What Results Are Normal?

• ALT: 7 to 55 units per liter (U/L)
• AST: 8 to 48 U/L
• Alkaline phosphate: 45 to 115 U/L
• Albumin: 3.5 to 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL)
• Total protein: 6.3 to 7.9 g/dL
• Bilirubin: 0.1 to 1.0 mg/dL

How do you check liver function from home?

The process is simple:

• The test is shipped directly to you by next day delivery
• Activate your test and answer a few health-related questions
• Your health record will be reviewed by a medical team member and should you need any support services, they will be provided
• Collect your sample at a time that suits you

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What blood tests indicate liver problems?

Liver enzyme tests

• Serum alkaline phosphatase test. This test is used to measure the blood level of an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase. ...
• Alanine transaminase (ALT) test. This test measures the level of alanine aminotransferase. ...
• Aspartate transaminase (AST) test. ...
• Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) test. ...
• Lactic dehydrogenase test. ...

What lab values indicate liver problems?

What lab values indicate liver problems?

• ALT. 7 to 55 units per liter (U/L)
• AST. 8 to 48 U/L.
• ALP. 40 to 129 U/L.
• Albumin. 3.5 to 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL)
• Total protein. 6.3 to 7.9 g/dL.
• Bilirubin. 0.1 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)
• GGT. 8 to 61 U/L.
• LD. 122 to 222 U/L.

What is the function of liver tests?

Why do we do liver function tests?

What does AST mean in blood?

What does it mean when you have bilirubin in your stool?

What does it mean when your liver is low in albumin?

What is the function of ALT in the liver?

What enzyme is found in the liver that helps convert proteins into energy for the liver cells?

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About this website

Liver Function Tests (Normal, Low, and High Levels & Results) - MedicineNet

Liver blood tests are some of the most commonly performed blood tests. These tests can be used to assess liver functions or liver injury. An initial step in detecting liver damage is a simple blood test to determine the level of certain liver enzymes (proteins) in the blood.

Liver Function Test - WebMD

If your doctor thinks there’s a problem with your liver, you’ll probably get a liver function test. Learn more about what the liver function test is used for, what to expect, how to prepare ...

Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Is It, Causes, Prevention & Treatment

If your blood test shows high levels of liver enzymes, you may need treatment. Either liver disease or medication may cause elevated liver enzymes.

What are common liver blood function tests?

Liver blood tests are some of the most commonly performed blood tests. These tests can be used to assess liver functions or liver injury. An initial step in detecting liver damage is a simple blood test to determine the level of certain liver enzymes (proteins) in the blood. Under normal circumstances, these enzymes mostly reside within the cells of the liver. But when the liver is injured for any reason, these enzymes are spilled into the blood stream. Enzymes are proteins that are present throughout the body, each with a unique function. Enzymes help to speed up (catalyze) routine and vital chemical reactions in the body.

What blood tests are done to detect liver function?

The blood tests that truly reflect liver function are the following; normal values (ranges) listed are for adult men - women and children have similar but slightly different ranges of normal test values

What are the basic functions of the liver?

The liver is located in the right upper portion of the abdominal cavity just beneath the rib cage. The liver has many functions that are vital to life. Briefly, some of the important functions of the human liver are:

What do high (elevated) liver tests (AST and ALT) mean?

AST (SGOT) and ALT (SGPT) are reasonably sensitive indicators of liver damage or injury from different types of diseases or conditions , and collectively they are termed liver tests or liver blood tests. However, it must be emphasized that higher-than-normal levels of these liver enzymes should not be automatically equated with liver disease. They may mean liver problems or they may not. For example, elevations of these enzymes can occur with muscle damage. The interpretation of elevated AST and ALT results depends upon the entire clinical evaluation of an individual, and so it is best done by physicians experienced in evaluating liver disease and muscle disease.

What are some common reasons for abnormal liver tests?

Abnormal liver tests may be detected in the blood in a variety of liver conditions.

What medications can cause increased liver enzyme tests (AST and ALT) levels?

A variety of medications can cause abnormal liver enzymes levels in some individuals.

What are some of the less common causes of elevated liver blood and function tests?

Less common causes of abnormal liver enzymes in the United States include hemochromatosis ( iron overload ), Wilson's disease, alpha-1- antitrypsin deficiency, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and autoimmune hepatitis. Though not as common as hepatitis C, hepatitis B can cause chronic liver disease with persistently abnormal liver enzymes.

What is the purpose of liver test?

Liver tests can help determine if your liver is working correctly. The liver performs a number of vital bodily functions, such as:

Why do you need a liver function test?

Your doctor may order a liver function test if you’re experiencing symptoms of a liver disorder. The different liver function tests can also monitor the progression or treatment of a disease and test for the side effects of certain medications.

What does a low albumin level mean?

An albumin test measures how well your liver is making this particular protein. A low result on this test can indicate that your liver isn’t functioning properly.

What does a high AST test mean?

When the liver is damaged, AST can be released into the bloodstream. A high result on an AST test might indicate a problem with the liver or muscles.

What to do if liver test results show a problem?

In general, if your results indicate a problem with your liver function, your doctor will review your medications and your past medical history to help determine the cause.

What is the function of ALT?

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is used by your body to metabolize protein. If the liver is damaged or not functioning properly, ALT can be released into the blood. This causes ALT levels to increase.

What is the main protein made by the liver?

Albumin is the main protein made by your liver. It performs many important bodily functions. For example, albumin:

What tests are done to check liver function?

Moreover, in addition to the liver tests (transaminases), other tests to screen the liver functions, such as a blood coagulation panel, albumin level, and total bilirubin level as well as a complete blood count need to be measured.

What Should I Know about Liver Blood Tests? Why Are They Used?

Liver blood tests are designed to show evidence that abnormalities, for example, inflammation, liver cell damage, has or is occurring within the liver. The blood tests most frequently used for liver disease are the aminotransferases (alanine aminotransferase or ALT and aspartate aminotransferase or AST).

How Long Will It Take to Get the Results (Interpretation) of Your Liver Blood Tests?

The results are usually available within hours to days and are reported to the ordering doctor for review.

What Are Normal and Elevated (High) Levels of Liver Enzymes?

Common causes of elevated ALT and AST are viral liver infections , alcohol abuse, cirrhosis (from any chronic causes), and more.

What Are AST and ALT (Aminotransferases)?

ALT was formerly known as serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) and AST as serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT).

What Are Less Common Causes of Abnormal Liver Enzymes?

There are many other causes of the abnormally elevated blood liver enzyme levels in addition to those mentioned above. Some of these conditions include:

What Tests and Procedures Diagnose the Causes of Abnormal Levels of Liver Enzymes?

The most important step in evaluating patients with abnormal liver enzyme levels is to take a thorough medical history and perform a complete medical examination. All the patient's medications, including over-the-counter drugs (OTC, and herbal remedies.

What are some of the most common liver tests?

These tests can also distinguish between acute and chronic liver disorders and between hepatitis (infection or inflammation of the liver) and cholestasis (disruption in the formation of or obstruction in the flow of bile).

What is the test for biliary cirrhosis?

The presence of these antibodies can indicate primary biliary cirrhosis, chronic active hepatitis, and certain other autoimmune disorders. Serum alpha-1 antitrypsin test (A1AT). This test measures the levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin in the blood.

What is the name of the enzyme that is released into the bloodstream after acute liver cell damage?

This enzyme is released into the bloodstream after acute liver cell damage. Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase test. This test measures the level of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase. This is an enzyme that is made in the liver, pancreas, and biliary tract.

What does elevated bilirubin mean?

Bilirubin is made by the liver and is excreted in the bile. Elevated levels of bilirubin may indicate an obstruction of bile flow or a problem in the processing of bile by the liver.

What is ALT test?

Alanine transaminase (ALT) test. This test measures the level of alanine aminotransferase. This is an enzyme found mostly in the liver that is released into the bloodstream after acute liver cell damage. This test may be performed to assess liver function, and/or to evaluate treatment of acute liver disease, such as hepatitis.

What is the purpose of serum albumin test?

Serum albumin test. This test is used to measure the level of albumin (a protein in the blood) and may be useful in the diagnosis of liver disease. Low levels of albumin may indicate the liver is not functioning properly.

What is the purpose of the Alpha-Fetoprotein test?

Alpha-fetoprotein (a specific blood protein) is made by fetal tissue and by tumors. This test may be done to predict the risk for primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). It is also done to monitor the effectiveness of therapy in certain cancers, such as hepatomas (a type of liver cancer).

What are liver blood tests?

Liver blood tests look at how well the liver is functioning and can indicate whether there is any damage or inflammation inside the liver.

How do I work out what my liver blood test results mean?

Your doctor will explain your test results to you. If they are abnormal, your doctor will also explain the most likely cause, and how severely affected your liver may be.

Is it accurate to call a liver blood test?

Calling these tests liver blood tests is a more accurate way of describing what the test actually does and uses less frightening language.

Is liver function test normal?

However, as most patients with abnormal liver blood tests actually have normal function of the liver, this term was felt to be unhelpful and often led to unnecessary concern. Therefore the term liver function tests, or LFTs, has been replaced by liver blood tests. This is a very important change, and the medical profession is working hard ...

Should I see a specialist if I have abnormal liver blood tests?

Not necessarily . If your results are abnormal your GP can advise you on the next steps to determine the cause and assess how serious the problem and any associated damage is.

What is liver function test?

A liver function test is a blood test in which the blood is examined in a laboratory to check for liver damage and the overall health of the liver. The levels of certain substances in the blood can help show if the liver is working properly. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission.

What are the proteins in the liver?

The liver also produces proteins, including albumin, globulin, and prothrombin. Low levels of these proteins could be a sign of liver damage. A prothrombin time test shows how long it takes for blood to clot. A liver function test also measures platelet counts and glucose levels.

What are the enzymes that are found in the liver?

Enzymes found in the liver and other parts of the body include alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT). High levels of these enzymes could mean damage to the liver or bile duct.

What is the disease that causes liver cancer?

Celiac disease (an autoimmune disease in which the person must avoid foods that contain gluten) Liver cancer. Other illnesses and conditions. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions about your liver function test results.

Why does bilirubin make your urine darker?

If the liver is damaged, bilirubin can leak out of the liver. This can cause the disease jaundice, in which the skin or eyes turn yellow. High bilirubin levels can also make urine darker in color.

Can you eat when taking a blood test?

Your healthcare provider may ask you not to eat, drink, or take certain medications in order to avoid affecting the test results.

What is liver function test?

What are liver function tests? Liver function tests (also known as a liver panel) are blood tests that measure different enzymes, proteins, and other substances made by the liver. These tests check the overall health of your liver. The different substances are often tested at the same time on a single blood sample, and may include the following:

What happens during a liver function test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

Is there anything else I need to know about liver function tests?

If any of your liver function tests were not normal, your provider may need more tests to confirm or rule out a specific diagnosis. These tests may include more blood tests and/or a liver biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure that removes a small sample of tissue for testing.

What are the symptoms of liver disease?

These include: Jaundice, a condition that causes your skin and eyes to turn yellow. Nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea. Abdominal pain. Dark-colored urine. Light-colored stool. Fatigue.

What is the name of the enzyme that is released into the blood when cells have been damaged by disease or injury?

Lactate dehydrogenase (LD), an enzyme found in most of the body's cells. LD is released into the blood when cells have been damaged by disease or injury. Prothrombin time (PT), a protein involved in blood clotting.

What enzymes are made by the liver?

These are different enzymes made by the liver. Bilirubin, a waste product made by the liver. Lactate dehydrogenase (LD), an enzyme found in most of the body's cells.

What is the test for total protein?

The different substances are often tested at the same time on a single blood sample, and may include the following: Total protein. This test measures the total amount of protein in the blood. ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine transaminase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT).

How long does it take for blood test results to come out?

Blood samples are analysed by a computer, and the results will take a few hours to a day to be accessible. The doctor can order more tests to find out what the problem is and how to handle it if the test results show signs of a problem.

How long does it take to get a blood test?

It takes only a few minutes for most blood tests. It may also be difficult to locate a vein, so the healthcare professional can have to try more than once.

What is the BUN in blood?

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine, waste products filtered by the kidneys from the blood. These levels reveal how well the kidneys function.

When to Get a Liver Function Test?

The doctor may recommend a liver function test as part of your routine checkups. These can also be required if you are suffering from an acute illness or to diagnose liver disease. Certain scenarios that warrant a liver function test include:

The most Frequently Performed Blood Tests are

Bilirubin test: The liver produces bilirubin which is a waste product and is excreted in the bile. This test measures the amount of bilirubin in the blood. Increased levels of bilirubin could indicate an issue in the liver’s ability to process the bile or blockage in the flow of bile fluid.

What Can You Expect During Your Liver Function Test?

Before the liver function test, your doctor will ask you to abstain from drinking or eating anything at least 6-8 hours before the test. The procedure is not at all painful. You might feel a slight tinge when the nurse or a phlebotomist draws out blood with a needle. The blood will be collected in a sterile tube for further processing.

Conclusion

A liver function test is a starting point for diagnosing liver disease. In case of abnormal results, your doctor will ask for additional tests and even a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of liver disease. If you have been diagnosed with liver disease, you should talk to a hepatologist or gastroenterologist immediately to decide on a treatment plan.

What is the function of liver tests?

Other liver function tests measure enzymes that liver cells release in response to damage or disease.

Why do we do liver function tests?

Why it's done. Liver function tests can be used to: Screen for liver infections, such as hepatitis. Monitor the progression of a disease, such as viral or alcoholic hepatitis, and determine how well a treatment is working. Measure the severity of a disease, particularly scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) Monitor possible side effects of medications.

What does AST mean in blood?

Aspartate transaminase (AST). AST is an enzyme that helps metabolize amino acids. Like ALT, AST is normally present in blood at low levels. An increase in AST levels may indicate liver damage, disease or muscle damage.

What does it mean when you have bilirubin in your stool?

Bilirubin. Bilirubin is a substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin passes through the liver and is excreted in stool. Elevated levels of bilirubin (jaundice) might indicate liver damage or disease or certain types of anemia. Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT).

What does it mean when your liver is low in albumin?

Your body needs these proteins to fight infections and to perform other functions. Lower-than-normal levels of albumin and total protein may indicate liver damage or disease.

What is the function of ALT in the liver?

ALT is an enzyme found in the liver that helps convert proteins into energy for the liver cells. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream and levels increase. Aspartate transaminase (AST). AST is an enzyme that helps metabolize amino acids.

What enzyme is found in the liver that helps convert proteins into energy for the liver cells?

Alanine transaminase (ALT). ALT is an enzyme found in the liver that helps convert proteins into energy for the liver cells. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream and levels increase.

Why It's Done

Risks

How You Prepare

What You Can Expect

Results