Clinical significance of a liver function test

A Liver Function Test usually combines measurements linked to liver-cell irritation, bile flow, protein production and blood clotting. One abnormal result does not by itself identify a disease, and some liver problems can occur with few symptoms. Clinicians interpret the pattern alongside your medicines, alcohol intake, weight, symptoms, examination and previous results. Possible explanations include alcohol-related liver injury, medication effects, fatty liver, or viral hepatitis such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C. The test may also be used to monitor a known condition or check how treatment is affecting you.

Ask the clinician who ordered the test which markers changed, how they compare with earlier results and whether repeat testing or imaging is needed. Provide a complete list of prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, herbal remedies and supplements; do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice. Avoid alcohol until you have discussed the result if alcohol-related injury is possible. Follow-up may include tests for viral hepatitis, review of metabolic health and assessment for symptoms such as itching, abdominal discomfort or jaundice.

Seek urgent medical help for yellowing of the skin or eyes with confusion, unusual sleepiness, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding or rapidly increasing abdominal swelling. New jaundice, very dark urine with pale stools or inability to keep fluids down also warrants prompt medical assessment. These symptoms need attention regardless of whether a previous blood test was only mildly abnormal.

Ask which results are outside the expected range, what pattern they form, whether medicines or alcohol may contribute, when testing should be repeated and whether specialist review or imaging is needed.