Functions of liver and different liver function tests

Major functions of Liver are the following

1. Blood glucose regulation
2. Synthesis of glycogen
3. Synthesis of triacyl glycerol
4. Synthesis of plasma proteins
5. Detoxification
6. Bile production, helps in digestion
7. Bilirubin metabolism

Biochemical test are done to assess the following
The hepatic function 

To detect hepatic injury

Patterns of abnormalities are more important than single test

May be normal in proven liver disease

Normal value never rules out liver Disease

Classification of liver function test based on laboratory findings

Hepatic excretory function is assessed with following tests

Serum Bilirubin

Urine: Bile Pigments, bile salt, urobilinogen

Liver enzymes

ALT,AST,ALP,GGT,5’ nucleotidase

Synthetic Function

Total Proteins

Serum albumin, globulins

Prothrombin time

Special Test

Ceruloplasmin

Ferritin

Alpha1 antitrypsin

Alpha fetoProteins

Classification of liver function  based on clinical aspects

Markers of liver dysfunction

Serum Bilirubin

Urine: Bile pigments, bile salt, urobilinogen

Total proteins, albumin

Prothrombin time

Blood ammonia

Markers of hepato cellular Injury

ALT,AST

Markers of cholestasis

ALP

GGT

5’ Nucleotidase