Description of the test
The liver is our largest internal organ and performs many functions within the body. By looking at certain chemicals in the blood produced by the liver, called enzymes, doctors can determine if there are any problems with how the liver is working.
A patient having blood collected for a blood liver enzyme test
How often should this test be performed?
Your doctor will decide when and how frequently this test is required.
Why is this test performed?
Having this test means that your doctor wants more information about the health of your liver. If you have hepatitis B or C, a chronic liver condition, or are taking medication that may damage the liver (e.g., some cholesterol-lowering medications), a doctor may order this test. If the test shows that there is liver damage due to medication you take, your doctor may change your dose or your medication.
Your doctor may want to determine if you have:
- liver damage caused by drinking too much alcohol
- other conditions related to your symptoms
Are there any risks and precautions I should know about?
There is very low risk of side effects with this test. The test may have a risk of infection (if the area is not properly sterilized before the sample is taken), bleeding from where the needle was inserted, or bruising around the area where the needle was inserted.
People with bleeding disorders or anyone taking medication that reduces the ability of the blood to clot (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, or other anticoagulants) should tell the technician before the samples of blood are taken. These conditions and medications may require special attention when the blood is taken.