Liver Function Tests: Evaluating the Health of Your Liver
Introduction Your liver is a vital organ responsible for several critical functions in your body. To ensure its proper functioning, doctors often perform liver function tests. These tests help diagnose liver diseases, monitor their progression, and assess the efficacy of treatment. In this article, we will explore the significance of liver function tests, the common types of tests, and their interpretation. Understanding the Liver Before delving into liver function tests, it is essential to understand the liver's role in maintaining your overall health. The liver is the largest gland in your body, residing beneath the rib cage on the right side. It plays a central role in numerous metabolic processes, including the production of bile, metabolizing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and storing vitamins and minerals. Common Liver Function Tests 1. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): ALT is an enzyme predominantly present in liver cells. Elevated ALT levels may indicate liver dam