All Liver Tests

All Liver Tests brings together the core blood tests that assess liver injurybile-flow (cholestasis), and liver function, while helping uncover common causes such as viral hepatitismetabolic/fatty liver diseasealcohol-related injuryautoimmune conditions, and genetic disorders. Early liver problems are often silent, so a proactive testing plan can identify issues before symptoms start.

Start with a hepatic function panelAST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase, GGT, total/direct bilirubin, albumin, total protein (± A/G ratio)—and add PT/INRplatelets/CBC, and basic metabolic safety labs (sodium, creatinine). Based on your history and results, include hepatitis A/B/C screeningautoimmune markers, and iron/copper/alpha-1 antitrypsin studies. Noninvasive fibrosis scores calculated from routine labs (e.g., FIB-4, APRI) help estimate scarring risk. Labs support screeningdiagnosisstaging, and monitoring, but they do not replace a clinician’s exam, ultrasound/elastography, endoscopy, or urgent care for severe symptoms.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Often silent early: abnormal enzymes on a routine wellness panel

  • Skin/eyes & digestion: jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, itching, low appetite, nausea

  • Abdomen & fluid: bloating or ascites, rapid weight change, leg swelling

  • Bleeding/energy: easy bruising/bleeding, fatigue, weakness

  • Thinking changes: sleep reversal, confusion (possible encephalopathy)

  • Risks & exposures: viral hepatitis risks, alcohol use, metabolic syndrome (central weight, diabetes, high triglycerides), family history of iron/copper/A1AT disorders, long-term or new medications/supplements

  • Seek urgent care now: vomiting blood or black stools, severe abdominal swelling with pain/fever, confusion or extreme sleepiness, chest pain, or trouble breathing

All symptoms and risks should be evaluated by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Reveal injury patterns (hepatocellular vs. cholestatic) and assess synthetic function (albumin, PT/INR)

  • Suggest causes using targeted add-ons (hepatitis panels, autoimmune markers, iron/copper/A1AT)

  • Provide risk clues for scarring via platelets and fibrosis scores (FIB-4/APRI; ELF where available)

  • Track trends over time to guide follow-up and imaging

What testing cannot do

  • Confirm cirrhosis or cancer on labs alone—imaging/elastography (and sometimes biopsy) may be needed

  • Replace medication/alcohol review, lifestyle counseling, or a clinician’s examination

  • Provide treatment or dosing advice—use results to plan with your clinician

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • AST & ALT: enzymes of liver-cell injury; ALT is more liver-specific. (AST can rise with muscle injury/exercise.)

  • Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) & GGT: cholestasis markers; GGT helps confirm that elevated ALP is liver-related (vs. bone).

  • Bilirubin (total/direct): high levels cause jaundicedirect (conjugated) bilirubin rises with cholestasis/obstruction.

  • Albumin & Total Protein (± A/G ratio): reflect protein-making (synthetic) function and nutrition/inflammation context.

  • PT/INR: clotting proteins made by the liver; prolonged INR indicates reduced synthesis.

  • Platelets & CBC: low platelets may track with portal hypertension; CBC adds anemia/infection context.

  • Safety labs (BMP): sodium and creatinine/eGFR support risk assessment and MELD-type scoring.

  • Hepatitis testing: HBsAg, anti-HBs, total anti-HBcHCV Ab with reflex RNAHAV IgM/totalHDV/HEV in select settings.

  • Autoimmune markers: ANA, ASMA, AMAIgG/IgM—support autoimmune hepatitis or primary biliary cholangitis patterns.

  • Iron & genetics: Ferritin, iron/TIBC, transferrin saturation (hemochromatosis risk); HFE testing as directed.

  • Wilson/A1AT: Ceruloplasmin (± copper studies) for Wilson disease; alpha-1 antitrypsin level/phenotype for A1AT deficiency.

  • Fibrosis indicators: FIB-4, APRI from routine labs; ELF where available.

  • HCC marker (context): AFP may support surveillance with ultrasound.

Quick Build Guide

Clinical goal Start with Add if needed
Wellness baseline / risk check Hepatic function panel (AST/ALT, ALP/GGT, bilirubin, albumin/TP) PT/INR • Platelets/CBC
Abnormal enzymes on wellness panel Liver panel • PT/INR • Platelets/CBC • BMP (Na, creatinine) HBV/HCV panels • Ferritin/Iron/TIBC • A1c/Lipids
Metabolic/fatty liver risk AST/ALT • GGT • Platelets • Albumin • A1c • Lipids Calculate FIB-4/APRI; rule out HBV/HCV
Cholestatic pattern (ALP/GGT high) Liver panel • Direct bilirubin • GGT AMA • IgM (PBC context); clinician-directed imaging
Viral hepatitis screen HBV triple panel • HCV Ab with reflex RNA Hepatic panel for injury context
Autoimmune pattern suspected Liver panel • Immunoglobulins ANA • ASMA • AMA; consider IgGsubclassing
Iron overload/elevated ferritin Ferritin • Iron/TIBC • Transferrin saturation HFE genotype per clinician
Unclear cause Liver panel • PT/INR • CBC Ceruloplasmin • Alpha-1 Antitrypsin • HBV/HCV
Monitoring known cirrhosis Bilirubin • INR • Creatinine • Sodium • Albumin • Platelets AFP per surveillance; track MELD-type labs

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Pick your starting set: most users begin with a hepatic function panelPT/INRCBC/platelets, and BMP.

  2. Provide a blood sample: no routine fasting (fast only if lipids are included). List all medications and supplements.

  3. Layer cause-finding tests: add hepatitis panelsautoimmune markers, and iron/copper/A1AT studies based on patterns and history.

  4. Get results securely: most values post within a few days.

  5. Plan next steps: your clinician may recommend ultrasound/FibroScan, MRI, or endoscopy; set a monitoring schedule to trend results.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • AST/ALT predominant elevation: hepatocellular injury (e.g., viral hepatitis, metabolic/fatty liver, alcohol, medication).

  • ALP ± GGT predominant elevation: cholestasis or bile-duct disease.

  • Rising bilirubin, high INR, low albumin: reduced synthetic function—requires closer follow-up.

  • Low platelets: may signal portal hypertension; correlate with imaging and exam.

  • High ferritin + high transferrin saturation: consider iron overload; discuss HFE testing.

  • High FIB-4/APRI: suggests advanced fibrosis; confirm with elastography.
    Always interpret patterns and trends with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Core liver set (most adults): AST • ALT • ALP • GGT • Total/Direct Bilirubin • Albumin • Total Protein (± A/G)

  • Function/severity add-ons: PT/INR • Platelets/CBC • Sodium • Creatinine

  • Cause-finding add-ons: HBV/HCV panels • ANA/ASMA/AMA • Ferritin/Iron/TIBC • Ceruloplasmin • Alpha-1 Antitrypsin • A1c/Lipids

  • Fibrosis assessment: calculate FIB-4/APRI (± ELF where available); imaging/elastography remains key

  • Monitoring: repeat the same markers on the same method to compare trends reliably.

FAQs

Do I need to fast for liver tests?
No. Fast only if your order includes lipids.

Can medicines or supplements affect results?
Yes. Many drugs and some supplements alter enzymes. List everything you take on the order.

Are normal liver tests a clean bill of health?
Not always. Compensated disease can test near normal; risk-based screening still matters.

What is the difference between LFTs and “liver function”?
“LFTs” include injury markers (AST/ALT, ALP/GGT) and function markers (albumin, PT/INR)—both are important.

When should I add hepatitis or autoimmune testing?
When enzymes are persistently abnormal or risk/history suggests infection or autoimmune disease.

What is FIB-4?
noninvasive fibrosis score using age, AST, ALT, and platelets; high values suggest more scarring and prompt elastography.

How often should I recheck labs?
It depends on results and risk. Many people recheck every 3–12 months—follow your clinician’s plan.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Liver & Gallbladder Tests Hub

  • Hepatic Function Tests • Hepatitis Screening Tests • Hepatitis Tests • Cirrhosis Tests • Fatty Liver (Metabolic) • Autoimmune Liver Disease

  • Key Tests: AST • ALT • Alkaline Phosphatase • GGT • Total/Direct Bilirubin • Albumin • Total Protein • A/G Ratio • PT/INR • Platelets/CBC • Sodium • Creatinine/eGFR • HBsAg • Anti-HBs • Anti-HBc • HCV Ab ± RNA • ANA • ASMA • AMA • Ferritin • Iron/TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • Ceruloplasmin • Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Level/Phenotype • A1c • Lipid Panel • FIB-4/APRI (calculated) • ELF (where available) • AFP

References

  • American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) — Guidance on evaluation of abnormal liver chemistries and chronic liver diseases.
  • AASLD — Guidance on MASLD/NAFLD, autoimmune liver disease, and cholestatic disease.
  • European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) — Clinical practice guidelines on liver disease assessment and fibrosis.
  • World Health Organization — Hepatitis B and C testing guidelines.
  • U.S. Preventive Services Task Force — Screening for Hepatitis B and C.
  • Clinical reviews on noninvasive fibrosis scores (FIB-4, APRI, ELF) and laboratory monitoring in liver disease.

Available Tests & Panels

Your All Liver Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Use filters to build the right package—hepatic function panelPT/INRCBC/plateletsBMP, plus hepatitis panelsautoimmune markersiron/copper/A1ATstudies, and fibrosis scoring support. Review results with your clinician to set imaging, follow-up timing, and an ongoing monitoring plan.

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The Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Quantitative Test measures levels of alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT), a protein that protects the lungs and liver from damage. Low levels may indicate alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder linked to emphysema, COPD, and liver disease. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained lung or liver problems, confirm hereditary AAT deficiency, and guide treatment or monitoring strategies for long-term health management.

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Also Known As: Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Test, A1AT Test, AAT Test, Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Serum Test

The Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) and AFP-L3 Test measures total AFP and the AFP-L3 fraction, which is more specific for liver cancer risk. Elevated AFP may indicate liver disease, germ cell tumors, or hepatitis, while AFP-L3 is strongly associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Doctors order this test to assess liver function, screen high-risk patients, and monitor cancer treatment. Results provide critical insight into liver health and cancer detection.

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Also Known As: AFP Test, Total AFP Test, Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Markers, Alpha-Fetoprotein Test

The ALT Test measures alanine aminotransferase, an enzyme mainly found in the liver. Elevated ALT may indicate liver damage from hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, alcohol use, or medication effects. Doctors order this test to evaluate symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice and often pair it with AST for accurate liver assessment. Results provide essential insight into liver health, enzyme activity, and overall metabolic function.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Alanine Aminotransferase Test, GPT Test, SGPT Test, Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase Test

The Ammonia Plasma Test measures ammonia levels in blood to evaluate liver function and metabolic health. Elevated ammonia may result from liver disease, cirrhosis, Reye’s syndrome, or urea cycle disorders, causing confusion or altered mental status. Doctors order this test for patients with unexplained behavioral changes, lethargy, or suspected hepatic encephalopathy. Results provide key insight into liver function, metabolic disorders, and treatment monitoring.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: NH3 Test, NH3 Plasma Test, Ammonia Blood Test

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Test detects antinuclear antibodies in blood to evaluate autoimmune activity. If positive, further testing identifies antibody concentration (titer) and fluorescence pattern, helping diagnose conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or swelling and to guide treatment for autoimmune and connective tissue disorders.

Also Known As: ANA Test, Antinuclear Antibody Screen Test

The ANA IFA Panel Comprehensive screens for autoimmune disorders by detecting antinuclear antibodies and specific markers including dsDNA, Sm, Sm/RNP, Scl-70, and Sjögren’s SS-A/SS-B. Doctors order this panel for patients with joint pain, rash, fatigue, or suspected lupus, scleroderma, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Results provide critical insight into autoimmune activity, helping confirm diagnosis, monitor disease progression, and guide treatment decisions.

Also Known As: Comprehensive ANA Panel

The ANCA Screen with Reflex to ANCA Titer detects antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, often linked to autoimmune vasculitis such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis. If the screen is positive, a titer is performed to measure antibody levels for greater diagnostic accuracy. Doctors use this test to evaluate unexplained inflammation, kidney or lung issues, and guide treatment decisions in autoimmune and systemic vasculitis care.

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Also Known As: ANCA Test, cANCA Test, pANCA Test, Serine Protease 3 Test, Acticytoplasmic Test, 3-ANCA test, PR3-ANCA Test, MPO-ANCA test

The AST Test measures aspartate aminotransferase, an enzyme found in the liver, heart, muscles, and other tissues. Elevated AST may indicate liver disease, heart attack, muscle injury, or other organ damage. Doctors order this test to evaluate symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or jaundice and often pair it with ALT for accurate liver assessment. Results provide key insight into liver function, muscle health, and overall metabolic balance.

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Also Known As: Aspartate Aminotransferase Test, Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase Test, SGOT Test

Most Popular

The B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Test measures BNP levels in blood to help diagnose and monitor heart failure and other cardiac conditions. High levels suggest the heart is under stress, often from congestive heart failure, hypertension, or heart disease. Doctors order this test for patients with shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling. Results provide critical insight into heart function, guiding treatment and monitoring response to therapy.

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Also Known As: Brain Natriuretic Peptide Test

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The Bile Acids Fractionated and Total Test measures both individual bile acid fractions and total bile acid concentration to evaluate liver function, bile flow, and metabolic integrity. This analysis helps detect cholestasis, hepatocellular injury, or impaired bile acid metabolism, supporting assessment of liver disorders, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, and other hepatobiliary conditions.

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Also Known As: Bile Acids Test


The Bilirubin Direct Test measures conjugated bilirubin in the blood to assess liver function and bile duct health. Elevated levels may indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, or bile duct obstruction, while low levels are generally normal. Doctors order this test for patients with jaundice, fatigue, or suspected liver disease. Results help diagnose and monitor liver disorders, guide treatment decisions, and evaluate overall hepatic and biliary health.

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Also Known As: Direct Bilirubin Test

The Fractionated Bilirubin Test separates total bilirubin into direct and indirect forms to assess liver and blood health. Elevated direct bilirubin may point to hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction, while elevated indirect levels can signal hemolytic anemia or inherited disorders. Doctors order this test for jaundice, anemia, or suspected liver conditions. Results help guide diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of liver and blood disorders.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Fractionated Bilirubin Test

The Bilirubin Total Test measures the overall level of bilirubin in blood to assess liver function, red blood cell breakdown, and bile duct health. Elevated bilirubin may cause jaundice and indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, or hemolytic anemia. Doctors order this test for patients with yellowing skin, fatigue, or abnormal liver results. Results provide essential insight into liver disease, blood disorders, and bile flow problems, guiding diagnosis and treatment.

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Also Known As: Total Bilirubin Test

The Neonatal Bilirubin Total Test evaluates the concentration of bilirubin in newborn blood, an important marker of liver processing and red blood cell breakdown. High bilirubin may cause neonatal jaundice and, in severe cases, lead to neurological complications. This test supports early detection, monitoring of bilirubin trends, and assessment of infant health during the newborn period.

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The BUN Creatinine Ratio Test compares blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to creatinine levels to assess kidney function and hydration status. A high ratio may indicate dehydration, gastrointestinal bleeding, or high protein intake, while a low ratio can suggest liver disease or malnutrition. Doctors order this test with kidney panels to evaluate fatigue, swelling, or abnormal lab results. Results help diagnose renal issues and guide treatment planning.

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Also Known As: Blood Urea Nitrogen to Creatinine Ratio

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures CRP levels in blood to detect inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP may indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors use this test to assess acute illness, monitor treatment response, and evaluate risk for heart disease. The CRP test provides key insight into inflammation, immune health, and overall wellness.

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Also Known As: CRP Test, Inflammation Test

Most Popular

The CA 19-9 Test measures levels of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 in blood, a tumor marker often elevated in pancreatic cancer and sometimes in bile duct, colorectal, or liver cancers. While not used alone for diagnosis, it helps monitor treatment, track disease progression, and detect recurrence. Elevated CA 19-9 may also occur in noncancerous conditions. Doctors use this test to support cancer management and guide therapy decisions.

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Also Known As: CA 19-9 Tumor Marker, Cancer Antigen 19-9 Test

The Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Test evaluates fibrinogen concentration, a key protein that influences clotting and cardiovascular disease risk. It provides insight into vascular inflammation, atherosclerosis, and thrombotic events. This test helps identify factors that contribute to stroke, coronary artery disease, and systemic vascular complications, offering valuable information for assessing overall cardiovascular health.

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Also Known As: Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test

The Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides Test measures triglyceride levels in the blood, an important marker of lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. Elevated triglycerides are linked to increased risk of heart disease, pancreatitis, and metabolic syndrome. Physicians use this test to assess risk factors, monitor therapy response, and guide lifestyle or treatment decisions, often as part of a broader lipid or heart health evaluation.

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The Cardio IQ Vitamin D test, also known as a 25-hydroxy vitamin D test, measures the levels of total vitamin D in the blood, including both vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). It provides information about an individual's overall vitamin D status.

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Also Known As: Ergocalciferol Test, Vitamin D2 Test, Cholecalciferol Test, Vitamin D3 Test, Calcidiol Test, 25-hydroxyvitamin D Test, Calcifidiol Test, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D Test

The Catecholamines Fractionated Plasma Test measures plasma levels of dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine, hormones that regulate stress response, blood pressure, and heart rate. Elevated levels may indicate pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, or other adrenal and nervous system disorders. Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms like hypertension, headaches, sweating, or palpitations, and to monitor treatment of adrenal tumors.

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The CEA Test measures carcinoembryonic antigen levels in blood, a protein that may be elevated in certain cancers, especially colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, or ovarian cancer. It is not used alone for diagnosis but helps monitor cancer treatment, detect recurrence, and track disease progression. Elevated CEA can also occur in noncancerous conditions. Doctors use this test to support therapy decisions and provide insight into cancer management.

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Also Known As: Carcinoembryonic Antigen Test

The Ceruloplasmin Test measures levels of ceruloplasmin, a copper-carrying protein made in the liver, to evaluate copper metabolism and related disorders. Low levels may indicate Wilson’s disease, Menkes disease, or severe liver disease, while high levels may suggest inflammation or pregnancy. Doctors order this test for patients with liver problems, neurological symptoms, or abnormal copper levels. Results help diagnose metabolic disorders and guide treatment.

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Also Known As: Copper Oxide Test, Wilson’s Disease Test

Nearly 4.5 million Americans — almost 1 in every 50 — live with liver disease. Are you one of them? If you're not sure, it might be time to order a liver function test.

A hepatic function panel tests how well your liver is working. Taking the initiative to check your liver function before noticing a problem could help you avoid serious health issues. 

Keep reading to learn what a hepatic function panel is, how it can help you catch health issues early, and how you can order it yourself online. 

What is a Decline in Hepatic Function?

Your liver is your body's hard-working multitasker. It performs many crucial functions, including:

  • Monitoring and regulating chemicals in your blood
  • Cleaning toxins from your blood
  • Performing functions with your immune system
  • Storing energy in the form of glycogen
  • Helping break down fatty food
  • Breaking down old red blood cells

Your liver is important to almost every function in your body. When your liver works poorly, your whole body can be affected. In medicine, this is known as a decline in hepatic function. 

Declining hepatic function can lead to serious health complications. That's why it's important to check your liver health as soon as you suspect that there may be a problem. 

Risk Factors for a Decline in Hepatic Function

You should watch for signs of liver problems if you have any risk factors for liver damage, including:

  • Traveling without being vaccinated against Hepatitis
  • Drinking more than the recommended maximum amount of alcohol per day
  • Being in contact with needles that aren't clean
  • Taking more than the recommended amount of medication that can harm your liver

While none of these risk factors guarantee that you will have a decline in hepatic function, they make it more likely that you will have liver problems.

Causes of a Decline in Hepatic Function

A decline in hepatic function is usually caused by liver damage or disease, such as:

  • A virus that damages the liver (such as Hepatitis A, B, and C)
  • Naturally occurring toxins
  • Excessive drug use (both street drugs and prescribed drugs)
  • Alcohol-related liver damage (alcoholic cirrhosis)
  • Liver cancer

A chronic disease like alcoholism can damage your liver slowly over a long period of time. Other diseases, such as viruses, can damage your liver quickly and leave you with lasting liver problems.

Signs and Symptoms of a Decline in Hepatic Function

If your liver is damaged, you'll need to get help immediately. Symptoms of low hepatic function include:

  • Jaundice (yellow color of your skin and eyes)
  • Light-colored stool and dark-colored urine
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Pain in your lower abdomen
  • Fatigue

If you see any of these symptoms of liver failure develop, you could be at risk for serious illness from liver damage and should have your liver function assessed right away.  

How is Decline in Hepatic Function Diagnosed?

A lab can analyze your hepatic function using blood tests. When you order your liver test online, you'll go to a patient service center to get a blood draw. They will take a sample of blood on which to perform tests.

Lab Tests to Screen, Diagnose, and Monitor Decline in Hepatic Function

Because your liver performs so many functions, a hepatic function panel includes a wide range of tests. These blood tests check how well your liver is doing its various tasks.

There are so many possible liver function tests that they are usually bundled together into a liver function panel. The most common tests included in a liver function panel are:

  • Aspartate transaminase (AST)
  • Alanine transaminase (ALT)
  • Bilirubin
  • Albumin and total protein
  • Blood creatinine 
  • Ammonia

Once you've been diagnosed with a decline in hepatic function, you can continue to order liver function panels to monitor your liver's status. 

You can also get lab tests to diagnose the cause of your liver problems, including:

These tests can help you narrow down the source of damage to your liver.

Frequently Asked Questions About Decline in Hepatic Function

Fortunately, testing hepatic function involves straightforward tests. However, you may still have questions. 

Are There Any Risks Involved in a Hepatic Function Panel?

When you get your hepatic function tested, the only risks involved are the normal side effects of getting a blood test. You may see some bleeding and bruising around the blood test site. To minimize bruising, put a bandage over the site and hold it on with firm pressure for several minutes after the blood test. 

Should I Fast Before My Hepatic Function Tests?

It depends on which tests you order. Some tests do not require you to fast before you have your blood drawn, but others do. Make sure to ask your doctor or online medical professional about the specific tests that you have ordered.

Keep in mind that you may want to order other tests in addition to your hepatic function panel, like a comprehensive metabolic panel, and have them all done at once. If you are ordering other tests, you may need to fast for those ones, even if you don't have to fast for your hepatic function tests.

To fast, avoid eating for 12 hours before the test. Avoid drinking anything other than water. 

Do I Have To Wait For a Doctor to Order Hepatic Function Tests For Me?

When you order your lab test online, you don't have to wait for a doctor's referral. This saves you time and money.

Catch Liver Disease Early With a Hepatic Function Panel

Your liver is one of the most essential organs in your body. If your liver is damaged, you should know about it right away. 

Ulta Lab Tests lets you order lab tests with no need for a physician referral, so you can be proactive about your health. You'll get your confidential results in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

Take control of your liver health today with a hepatic function panel test from Ulta Lab Tests.

Jaundice, also called icterus, is a condition where the skin, the whites of the eyes, and even body fluids turn significantly yellow following an increase in the levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellowish substance that forms from the normal breakdown of red blood cells (or RBCs). Red blood cells normally live for about 120 days before being broken down by the body, a process that results in the formation of bilirubin. Bilirubin is then transported to the liver where it is metabolized and excreted in bile. Bile is a yellow-green-to-brown fluid that is released into the duodenum to help in the digestion of lipids and the elimination of waste substances like bilirubin and excess cholesterol. Changes to the normal metabolism process or overproduction of bilirubin may lead to jaundice. 

Jaundice is not an illness, per se. Rather, it is a medical condition that may indicate an underlying liver, pancreas, or gallbladder problem. Jaundice can be caused by several factors, including infections, cancer, use of certain drugs, gallstones, blood disorders, inherited conditions, congenital disabilities, among other medical conditions.

Generally, the causes of jaundice may be categorized into these three groups: 

  • Conditions that arise from the inability of the liver to metabolize and eliminate bilirubin 
  • Conditions that cause shortened life for red blood cells, which in turn leads to increased levels of bilirubin 
  • Conditions that inhibit the elimination of bilirubin from the body 

Common Causes of Jaundice 

Acute hepatitis: inflammation of the liver due to various reasons, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, alcohol abuse, viral infections, toxins, and some medicines such as acetaminophen. 

Blockage of the bile duct, which may be caused by: 

  • Damage and Scarring 
  • Biliary atresia, a congenital condition linked to the abnormal development of the bile duct, which results in the backup and pooling of bile and an increase in the level of bilirubin in the blood. 
  • Gallstones 
  • Pancreatic cancer may sometimes lead to the blockage of the bile duct. 

Conditions that result in a significant increase in the rate of red blood cell destruction cause an increase in bilirubin production. Such conditions include hemolytic anemia, due to an abnormal variant of hemoglobin, autoimmune disorders, malaria, or hemolytic disease of the newborn (or HDN). 

Gilbert syndrome: an inherited condition that is associated with reduced bilirubin metabolism due to decreased enzyme activity. Individuals with Gilbert syndrome may have passing jaundice during times of sickness or stress and times of increased levels of unconjugated bilirubin. 

Cirrhosis: jaundice can occur in the late stages of cirrhosis. 

Laboratory Tests 

Some of the tests used to assess liver function and detect liver damage include: 

Liver panel, which often comprises: 

ALT (or Alanine aminotransferase) 

AST (or Aspartate aminotransferase) 

ALP (or Alkaline phosphatase) 

Bilirubin, Total (conjugated and unconjugated), Direct (conjugated) and Indirect (unconjugated) 

GGT (or Gamma-glutamyl transferase) 

Albumin 

Prothrombin time (or PT): the liver produces essential proteins for blood clotting/coagulation. The PT measures the clotting function, which may indicate liver damage if abnormal. 

Urine bilirubin, which often falls under a urinalysis 

Some tests are important for the detection of infections that affect the liver, including: 

Tests that come in handy in detecting reduced red blood cell survival include: