In brief
A group of blood tests that helps show how well your liver is working.
What it measures
The liver enzymes ALT, AST, ALP and GGT, plus bilirubin and albumin.
Why it is done
As part of a routine health check, to help diagnose liver damage when you have symptoms, or to monitor liver disease that has already been diagnosed.
Reading the results
- ALT is found mostly in the liver, while AST is also in red blood cells, the heart and muscles.
- ALP comes mainly from the liver and bone. GGT is raised with bile duct problems and with alcohol overuse.
- High bilirubin causes jaundice, and albumin helps show how severe liver disease is.
- Causes of liver damage include fatty liver disease, alcohol, hepatitis B or C, some medicines and toxins, and gallstones.
Before the test
None, but check with your doctor.
What can affect the result
- Muscle injury
- Dehydration
- Pregnancy
- Severe infections
- Some medicines
Related topics
Connections
Liver function tests (LFTs) measures
Liver function tests measure liver enzymes, bilirubin and albumin, which together help build a picture of your liver's health.
- Fatty liver disease (MAFLD) Supported
Fatty liver is often found with blood tests, including liver function tests.
Sources: healthdirect Australia, Fatty liver disease; Pathology Tests Explained, Liver function tests
Sources
Test information summarised from the sources listed on this page, read on 19 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.