Liver Profile
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
What is a liver profile?
A liver profile is a group of blood tests that show how well your liver is working. The liver makes enzymes and bile that help digest food and gives your body energy. It also removes harmful material from your body, such as alcohol and other chemicals.
What blood tests are part of a liver profile?
- Liver enzyme tests measure alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymes. These tests may also include gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT).
- Liver protein tests measure albumin and other proteins in your blood. This includes antibodies that help to fight infections.
- Bilirubin tests measure the amount of bilirubin in your blood. Bilirubin is a yellow fluid made in your body when red blood cells break down.
How do I get ready for the test?
Healthcare providers may tell you not to eat or drink anything, except water, after midnight. Several medicines can affect the results of your liver function tests. Ask your healthcare provider if you should wait to take your medicines until after your blood is taken. Wear a short-sleeved or loose shirt on the day of the test. This will make it easier to draw your blood.
What do abnormal test results mean?
Abnormal levels of liver enzymes, proteins, or bilirubin may be a sign of liver damage or disease. You may need another liver profile or other tests to find the cause of your abnormal test results.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your lab tests. You can then discuss the results with your healthcare providers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
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