Abnormal Liver Tests

Understanding Abnormal Liver Tests

When your doctor orders liver tests and the results come back abnormal, it can be concerning. However, abnormal liver tests don't always mean something serious, but they do need attention. Here's what they might indicate:

• Liver Enzymes (ALT and AST):

  • Elevated levels of liver enzymes, such as Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), may suggest liver inflammation or damage.

  • Causes can include any medication or supplement as well any of the causes of chronic liver disease mentioned on this website.

• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and Bilirubin:

  • High levels of ALP or bilirubin may indicate problems with bile flow from the liver. This could be due to conditions like bile duct obstruction, gallstones, or liver diseases.

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) can sometimes accompany elevated bilirubin levels.

• Albumin and Total Protein:

  • Low levels of albumin and total protein may suggest liver dysfunction, as the liver is responsible for producing these proteins.

  • Causes can include chronic liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney problems.

• Prothrombin Time (PT):

  • An increased PT may indicate impaired blood clotting function, which can be due to liver disease.

  • The liver produces clotting factors, so dysfunction can lead to prolonged PT.

• Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT):

  • Elevated GGT levels may indicate liver or bile duct injury. It's often used to detect alcohol-related liver damage.

  • GGT can also be elevated in conditions like biliary obstruction or certain medications.

What to Do Next:

• Follow-Up Testing: Your doctor may recommend further tests, such as blood tests (for causes of liver disease), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), or even a liver biopsy, to determine the cause of the abnormal results.

• Review Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you're taking, as these can sometimes affect liver function.

• Lifestyle Changes: In many cases, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, and exercising regularly can help improve liver health.

• Regular Monitoring: Depending on the underlying cause, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of liver function tests to track progress and adjust treatment if needed.

• Consider getting evaluated for significant liver damage (also called fibrosis, see separate link on this website)

Conclusion:

While abnormal liver tests can be worrying, they often indicate a treatable condition when caught early. It's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop a plan for managing your liver health.