Exam Overview
Liver tests are used to study liver function
and to determine if the liver is damaged or inflamed. These tests are done on a
blood sample.
Indicators of liver function
Indicators of liver damage or inflammation (liver enzyme studies)
Why It Is Done
These tests are done when your
medical history and the findings of a physical exam suggest that you
have a condition (such as a viral infection) that might have affected the
liver.
Results
Findings of liver tests may include the
following.
Normal
All levels are within normal range.
Abnormal
Abnormal liver function tests indicate that the liver is
inflamed or is not functioning normally.
Elevated enzyme levels
indicate liver inflammation (hepatitis), which may be a clue that a viral
infection is present.
What To Think About
Elevated liver enzymes may be caused by something other than mono, including other viral infections (such as
hepatitis B); severe bacterial infection; heart disease; heart attack; bone,
muscle, and joint injuries; and certain cancers. So liver function
tests alone are not a reliable way to confirm a diagnosis of mono.
If your liver enzymes are elevated because of mono, they will return to
normal without treatment after the illness goes away.
Complete the medical test information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you prepare for this test.
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerCaroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Current as ofMarch 3, 2017