What is a Liver Function Test?

What is a Liver Function Test?

A liver function test is a blood test that examines the blood in a laboratory to assess the liver's general health and for liver damage. The presence of specific chemicals in the blood can indicate whether or not the liver is functioning normally.
1. What is the function of the liver?
Among the functions of the liver are: Filtration of blood from the digestive system Processing waste materials and storing energy Getting rid of toxins Making proteins that aid in blood clotting The process of producing glucose (blood sugar) Helps with digestion

What does a liver function test look for?

A liver function test examines the amounts of enzymes and proteins in the blood. Alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase are enzymes found in the liver and other regions of the body (GGT). The presence of high levels of these enzymes may indicate liver or bile duct damage.
Albumin, globulin, and prothrombin are among the proteins produced by the liver. The presence of low levels of these proteins could indicate liver damage. A prothrombin time test determines how long blood takes to clot.
Platelet counts and glucose levels are also measured during a liver function test. (Platelets aid in the clotting of blood, which helps to halt bleeding.)
Bilirubin levels are also measured during the liver function test. Bilirubin is a fluid produced when red blood cells are broken down. Bilirubin can seep out of the liver if it is damaged. This can result in jaundice, which causes the skin or eyes to turn yellow. Urine might also become darker in colour due to high bilirubin levels.