Which laboratory test is most commonly used to assess liver function?

The laboratory test most commonly used to assess liver function is liver function tests (LFTs). LFTs are a series of blood tests that provide vital information regarding the health of the liver. They measure levels of various enzymes, proteins, and substances produced or processed by the liver. Key components typically included in LFTs are alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, and albumin.

By evaluating the concentrations of these substances, healthcare providers can gain insights into liver damage, inflammation, bile duct obstructions, and other hepatobiliary disorders. For example, elevated levels of AST and ALT often indicate cell injury, while elevated bilirubin can suggest issues with bile excretion. Overall, LFTs are central to diagnosing and monitoring liver diseases, making them the primary tool for assessing liver function.

Other test options, while useful for different assessments, do not specifically focus on liver function. The complete blood count (CBC) evaluates overall health and detects a variety of disorders, such as anemia and infection, but it does not provide direct information about liver function. The electrolyte panel measures levels of important minerals in the blood that affect bodily functions but does