What are some examples of common liver tests?

A battery of blood tests may frequently determine if the liver is inflamed, damaged, or functioning properly. In persons who have obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or high cholesterol, certain blood tests can indicate metabolic liver disease. These tests can help distinguish between acute and chronic liver diseases. The tests of liver function can also distinguish between hepatitis and cholestasis. The following are the most frequent blood tests:

Tests for liver enzymes

• Test for alkaline phosphatase in the blood. This test measures the blood level of an enzyme known as alkaline phosphatase. This enzyme can be found in a variety of tissues. The liver, biliary system, and bones have the largest concentrations. This test may be performed to assess liver function. It may also be used to detect hepatic abnormalities that might cause bile obstruction, such as tumours or abscesses.
• Test for alanine transaminase (ALT). This test detects the presence of alanine aminotransferase. This enzyme is predominantly found in the liver. It enters the circulation following acute liver cell injury. This test may be performed to assess liver function. It might also be done to monitor the therapy of acute liver illness, such as hepatitis.
• Test for aspartate transaminase (AST). This test detects the presence of aspartate transaminase. The liver, kidneys, pancreas, heart, skeletal muscle, and red blood cells all contain this enzyme. During acute liver cell injury, this enzyme is released into the circulation.
• Glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) assay. The amount of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase is determined by this test. This test is frequently used to assess liver function, provide information about liver illnesses, and determine whether or not a person has consumed alcohol.
• Lactic dehydrogenase analysis. This test is capable of detecting tissue damage and may aid in the diagnosis of liver disease. A protein is lactic dehydrogenase. It is also known as an isoenzyme. It is engaged in the metabolic process of the organism. Nonetheless, this is a pretty generalised liver test. It is seldom used to diagnose liver disease.

If a specific condition is suspected, more diagnostic tests of liver function may be performed. Among these tests are:

• AFP test- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a blood protein produced by foetal tissue and malignancies. This test may be used to predict the risk of developing primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). It is also used to assess how effectively some cancer therapies, such as hepatoma, are functioning.
• Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs) in the blood can indicate primary biliary cirrhosis, chronic active hepatitis, or other autoimmune illnesses. Several additional antibodies, which can be present in blood, are also symptomatic of liver illness.