Topic Overview
A liver (hepatic) function panel is a
blood test to check how well the
liver is working. This test measures the blood levels
of total
protein,
albumin,
bilirubin, and liver
enzymes. High or low levels may mean that liver damage
or disease is present.
The liver serves several important
functions in the body, including changing nutrients into energy for the body
and breaking down toxic substances.
Your doctor may order a liver
function panel if you have symptoms of liver disease. These symptoms include
fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, yellowing of your eyes or skin (jaundice), dark yellow urine, and feeling very tired.
This blood test also may be done if you have recently been exposed to a
hepatitis virus or are taking a medicine that may
cause liver damage.
For more information, see the topics:
References
Other Works Consulted
- Fischbach FT, Dunning MB III, eds. (2009).
Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests, 8th ed.
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
- Pagana KD, Pagana TJ (2010). Mosby’s Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, 4th ed. St. Louis: Mosby.
Credits
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By
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Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
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Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Steven L. Flamm, MD - Gastroenterology |
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Last Revised
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November 11, 2010 |
