Skip to main content
Back to Lab Panels

Liver Function Panel

Tests that assess liver health by measuring enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels.

7 markers included

Purpose

The liver function panel evaluates how well your liver is working and whether there is any damage or inflammation. It helps detect liver diseases like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and monitors the effects of medications that may affect the liver.

When to Order

Recommended if you have symptoms of liver disease, take medications that can affect the liver, drink alcohol regularly, have obesity or diabetes (risk factors for fatty liver), or have a history of liver disease.

Preparation Instructions

No fasting is required, though some doctors prefer fasting for consistency. Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours before the test. Some medications may need to be held - consult your doctor.

Included Markers

ALT (Alanine Transaminase)

U/L

ALT (Alanine Transaminase, also written ALAT or SGPT) is an enzyme concentrated in the liver. When liver cells are damaged, ALT leaks into the bloodstream, so it is the single most liver-specific enzyme on a standard Liver Function Test (LFT). It is often interpreted alongside AST, GGT and ALP to build a picture of liver health.

AST (Aspartate Transaminase)

U/L

AST (Aspartate Transaminase, also written ASAT or SGOT) is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, skeletal muscle and red blood cells. Because AST exists in multiple tissues, it is less liver-specific than ALT. Pathology labs report AST as part of the standard Liver Function Test (LFT) panel.

ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase)

U/L

An enzyme found primarily in the liver and bones.

GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)

U/L

An enzyme found in many tissues, especially the liver.

Bilirubin

μmol/L

A yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.

Albumin

g/L

The main protein in blood plasma, produced by the liver.

Total Protein

g/L

The sum of all proteins in blood plasma, including albumin and globulins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do elevated ALT and AST levels mean?
Elevated ALT and AST indicate liver cell damage. ALT is more liver-specific, while AST is also found in heart and muscle. Common causes include fatty liver, medications, alcohol, viral hepatitis, and autoimmune conditions.
What is considered a mildly elevated liver enzyme?
Mild elevation is typically 1-3 times the upper limit of normal. This is common and often due to fatty liver, medications, or transient causes. Levels 3-10 times normal warrant investigation; higher levels suggest significant liver injury.
Can fatty liver be reversed?
Yes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can often be reversed with lifestyle changes including weight loss, exercise, and dietary modifications. Even 5-10% weight loss can significantly improve liver enzymes and reduce liver fat.
Why is GGT elevated with alcohol use?
GGT is very sensitive to alcohol consumption and is induced by alcohol. Elevated GGT with normal or mildly elevated ALT/AST often suggests alcohol-related liver effects. GGT typically normalizes within weeks of abstinence.

Quick Facts

  • Markers:7
  • Fasting:Not required

Related Conditions

Track Your Results

Track Your Liver Function Panel Results

Upload your Liver Function Panel results to BloodTrack and monitor all 7 markers over time. Compare results across tests and spot trends early.

Get Started FreeBrowse All Markers