Liver Function Tests
To better improve your digestive and metabolic well-being, a healthy liver is vital. Our doctors provide comprehensive liver function tests in a patient-centered environment. These tests help us detect, locate and treat liver conditions and improve your overall quality of life.
Liver function tests are blood tests used to evaluate the health and condition of a person’s liver. Also known as a hepatic panel, the tests help doctors better assess, diagnose and treat liver conditions by examining the levels of various enzymes and proteins in your bloodstream.
By checking the various levels of these enzymes, liver function tests can determine the cause and severity of liver diseases and detect conditions of abnormal liver function such as:
- Jaundice
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Cholangitis
- Cancer
Unlike liver biopsies, liver function tests are not surgical procedures. During the test, your doctor will use a small needle to draw a blood sample from your arm.
After your blood is drawn, a pathologist checks it for abnormalities in your enzyme levels. The test specifically examines enzymes that help metabolize proteins and acids, as well as proteins that help fight infections.
More often than not, your liver function test results are available the same day as your test.
Liver function tests are simple blood tests. Any risks associated with the them involve the site in your arm where your blood was drawn.
These complications include infection, bleeding, bruising, or swelling of the site of blood draw. At Providence, our doctors, nurses and caregivers work to ensure your blood is drawn in a comfortable and relaxing environment to avoid complications.
Doctors Specializing in Liver Function Tests
At Providence, you'll have access to a vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.
