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liver function tests Alternative Names LFT Definition There are a number of ways to test liver function. Each test has its own name, as listed in the section below. Who is a candidate for the test? Liver function tests are ordered to see if the person's liver is healthy and functioning properly. How is the test performed? For the specific way in which each liver test is performed, refer to one of the following tests: albumin, a protein synthesized by the liver ALP, an enzyme found in the liver, bones and placenta ALT, an enzyme found primarily in liver cells AST, an enzyme found in the liver as well as many other body organs serum bilirubin, a waste product formed by the breakdown of red blood cells urine bilirubin GGT, an enzyme present in the liver, pancreas and kidney LDH, an enzyme found in the liver PT or prothrombin time, which tests the blood's ability to clot total cholesterol, a substance stored in the liver total protein, a nutrient normally broken down by the liver and its enzymes What is involved in preparation for the test? Specific instructions should be requested from the healthcare provider. What do the test results mean? See the results given for each individual test of liver function.

Author: David T. Moran, MD Date Written: 01/06/00 Reviewer: Sandy Keefe, RN, MSN Date Reviewed: 09/11/01 Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request