Evaluation of abnormal liver tests

Med Clin North Am. 2014 Jan;98(1):1-16. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2013.09.005. Epub 2013 Oct 28.

Abstract

The routine use of serum biochemical tests allows for the detection of acute and chronic liver injury before the onset of symptoms. These tests consist of markers of hepatocellular injury (aminotransferases and APs); tests of liver metabolism (total bilirubin); and tests of liver synthetic function (serum albumin and PT). Noninvasive tests for assessment of liver fibrosis are promising tools for diagnosis and prognosis of patients with chronic liver disease. A comprehensive history, physical examination, and assessment of pattern of liver injury with additional laboratory and imaging testing establish the cause of hepatobiliary disease in most cases.

Keywords: Alkaline phosphatase; Aminotransferases; Bilirubin metabolism; Cholestasis; Hepatocellular injury.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alkaline Phosphatase / metabolism*
  • Bilirubin / metabolism*
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Disease Management
  • Hepatocytes / metabolism
  • Hepatocytes / pathology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / diagnosis
  • Liver / metabolism
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver / physiopathology
  • Liver Cirrhosis / diagnosis
  • Liver Diseases* / blood
  • Liver Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Liver Diseases* / etiology
  • Liver Diseases* / physiopathology
  • Liver Function Tests / methods
  • Prognosis
  • Prothrombin / metabolism*
  • Serum Albumin / metabolism*
  • Transaminases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Serum Albumin
  • Prothrombin
  • Transaminases
  • Alkaline Phosphatase
  • Bilirubin