Liver Function Tests

Overview:

Liver function tests are a group of tests performed to diagnose or evaluate the overall function of the liver and to monitor for any kind of liver abnormalities.

When it’s done:

This test is performed when a person is at a risk for developing liver damage because of:

• Taking medicines that can harm the liver
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Having a family history of liver diseases
• Being overweight while having diabetes or hypertension

The test is also performed in individuals with symptoms of liver diseases such as:

• Weakness or fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Jaundice
• Passing dark-coloured urine or light-coloured stool

When to Avoid:

There is no specific condition when this test should be avoided. Inform your doctor about any medications, prescription or over-the-counter medications including herbal supplements that may affect the liver function test results.

How to prepare:

For some of the tests included in the panel, it might be required for you to fast overnight with consuming water alone. Follow instructions provided by your doctor. To perform this test, a blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm and sent to the laboratory.