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What Do Liver Function Tests Really Tell Us?
Published: Jul 23, 2024
Liver function tests are crucial in assessing liver health, but they can be misleading. Discover how these tests work and what they truly indicate about your liver's condition.
Decoding Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests check various enzymes and proteins in the blood, such as aminotransferases and bilirubin. While they are called 'liver function tests,' they don't always show how well the liver is actually working. These tests can be abnormal due to other health issues, not just liver problems.
The Role of Serum Proteins
The liver is responsible for producing crucial proteins like albumin and coagulation factors. Albumin levels can indicate liver function but are also affected by other conditions like malnutrition. Coagulation factors, which help blood clot, can also signal liver issues if they're deficient.
Interpreting Prothrombin Time
Prothrombin time measures how quickly blood clots and can be prolonged in liver diseases. However, it can also be affected by vitamin K deficiency, making it a non-specific indicator. In chronic liver disease, it may not accurately reflect bleeding risk but can hint at severe liver dysfunction.
Frequently Asked Questions
They measure enzymes and proteins like aminotransferases and bilirubin.
No, they can be misleading and affected by non-liver issues.
It measures blood clotting speed but is not specific to liver disease.
The liver produces them, so their levels can indicate liver function.
Yes, but they can also be influenced by other conditions.
The Bottom Line
While important, liver function tests require careful interpretation alongside other clinical assessments.
References
- Rothschild MA, Oratz M, Schreiber SS. Serum albumin. Hepatology 1988; 8:385.
- Bernardi M, Angeli P, Claria J, et al. Albumin in decompensated cirrhosis: new concepts and perspectives. Gut 2020; 69:1127.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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