How can I interpret the results of a liver function test?
The results of a liver function test of a person may indicate liver health and help doctors detect damage or liver disease. The liver tests measure the level of certain enzymes and proteins in the blood. Some test results indicate damage if they are higher than normal, while other test results will show lower than normal levels if liver damage occurs. These tests can also help physicians monitor the side effects of drugs that affect the liver. The results of the liver test may affect diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
Alanin transaminase (ALT) is a liver function that measures the levels of the enzyme found in the liver. If the liver is damaged or patient, this enzyme is released, thereby increasing the level of enzyme in the blood. Normal results of the liver function test for ALT decrease between 7 and 55 units per liter (U/L).
Like ALT, aspartate transaminase (AST) liver test measures another type of enzyme found in Liver. The levels of thisThe enzyme is increased if the liver is damaged or if a person suffers from liver disease. Normal liver test results are 8 to 48 U/L. Higher results in this test indicate liver problems.
Another test of liver function measuring enzymes is the alkaline phosphatase test (Alp). Alps levels are increased in the case of liver or dysfunction disease. Normally, the Alp 45 to 115 U/L levels are abnormal, and if these or other results are abnormal, the person should consult with a physician.
In addition to enzymes, liver tests can also measure proteins. Albumin tests measure the type of protein produced by the liver to help the body function properly. If this test result is lower than usual, this may mean liver damage or disease. Normal albumin test levels are 3.5 to 5 grams per deciliter (g/dl).
Total protein is an anotest of the liver that measures proteins forducked liver. Normally, total protein levels should be between 6.3 and 7.9 g/dl. If these levels are low, it can mean liver problems.
Bilirubin test is another assessment of liver functions that measure the amount of bilirubin or urine. Bilirubin is a type of chemical when red blood cells fall apart. Bilirubin lives in a healthy body and is excreted. High bilirubin levels may indicate liver or disease damage. Normal bilirubin levels are between 0.1 and 1 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl).