All blood draws are performed by trained phlebotomists
Liver Function Blood Test
A liver function blood test, also known as a liver panel or hepatic function panel, assesses various markers to evaluate the health and function of the liver.
Here are the parameters measured in a liver function blood test:
- Albumin: Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. Low levels of albumin may indicate liver disease or malnutrition.
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): ALT is an enzyme found primarily in the liver cells. Elevated levels of ALT may indicate liver damage or injury, such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): AST is another enzyme found in liver cells, as well as in other tissues such as the heart and muscles. Elevated AST levels may indicate liver damage, but they are less specific to the liver than ALT.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): ALP is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver, bones, and bile ducts. Elevated ALP levels may indicate liver or bone disease, such as liver obstruction or bone disorders.
- Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a waste product produced when the liver breaks down old red blood cells. Elevated levels of total bilirubin may indicate liver dysfunction or problems with bile flow.
- Total Protein: Total protein measures the total amount of protein in the blood, including albumin and other proteins. Abnormal levels may indicate liver disease or other health conditions.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): GGT is an enzyme found in the liver, bile ducts, and other tissues. Elevated GGT levels may indicate liver disease, alcohol consumption, or bile duct obstruction.
- Globulin calculation: Globulins are a group of proteins in the blood that play important roles in liver function, blood clotting, and fighting infections. The globulin level is usually calculated indirectly from the total protein and albumin levels measured in a blood test.
Here are some red flag symptoms that may prompt the need for Liver Function blood testing:
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes, indicating a build-up of bilirubin, a by-product of red blood cell breakdown, which the liver normally processes and excretes.
- Abdominal Pain and Swelling: Pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, where the liver is located, or generalized abdominal swelling (ascites).
- Dark Urine: Urine that is darker than normal, which may indicate the presence of bilirubin
- Pale Stools: Stools that are lighter in colour than normal, which may indicate a problem with bile production or flow.
- Chronic Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and weakness that doesn’t improve with rest, possibly due to impaired liver function.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Frequent nausea and vomiting that cannot be attributed to other causes.
- Loss of Appetite: A significant reduction in appetite, which can lead to weight loss.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying, which can be a sign of liver disease.
- Swelling in the Legs and Ankles: Edema, or swelling, in the lower extremities due to fluid retention.
- Bruising or Bleeding Easily: Increased tendency to bruise or bleed, suggesting issues with blood clotting proteins produced by the liver.
- Itchy Skin: Persistent itching without an obvious cause, which may be related to bile salts depositing in the skin.
- Confusion or Cognitive Changes: Changes in mental status, such as confusion or difficulty thinking clearly (hepatic encephalopathy).
These parameters provide valuable information about liver function, liver damage, and bile flow. Interpretation of liver function test results should be done in conjunction with a thorough medical history, physical examination, and other diagnostic tests if needed. Abnormal results may indicate various liver conditions, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management if abnormalities are detected.
Liver ultrasound may be recommended to look in detail at the size, shape and condition of the liver.
You need to be very well hydrated for this test, please take 2 – 3 glasses of water an hour before the test.
- Drink plenty of water about an hour before the appointment.
- Avoid coffee/tea/energy drinks.
*Turnaround time
The tests take time to be delivered, prepared and analysed, therefore the turnaround time varies from test-to-test