Liver function tests evaluate key enzymes and proteins in your blood. When levels of ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase or bilirubin fall outside the normal range, your report may be labeled "abnormal." In ICD-10 coding, these findings are captured under R94.5, signaling that further evaluation of your liver health is needed.
Many people with abnormal liver function tests have no obvious symptoms. If signs do occur, they can include:
Abnormal liver test results can arise from a variety of conditions and factors:
With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive liver health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for abnormal liver function tests and related conditions. Our approach is rooted in compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve long-term relief and improved well-being.
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Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Abnormal liver tests indicate that one or more liver enzymes or markers (such as ALT, AST, ALP, or bilirubin) are outside their normal ranges. This can signal inflammation, liver cell injury, blockage of bile flow, or other underlying liver conditions.
A standard liver function panel typically includes ALT (alanine aminotransferase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALP (alkaline phosphatase), total and direct bilirubin, albumin, and prothrombin time. Together, these measure how well your liver is working.
Normal ranges vary slightly by lab, but generally ALT and AST should be under 40 U/L, ALP between 44-147 U/L, and total bilirubin under 1.2 mg/dL. Your doctor will interpret your results based on these reference values.
Yes-slightly elevated or decreased enzyme levels are fairly common and often transient. Mild fluctuations can result from medications, temporary infections, or diet changes and may resolve without intervention.
ICD-10 code R94.5 is used when laboratory tests show abnormal liver function but the specific cause has not yet been determined. It flags that further evaluation is needed to identify the underlying issue.
You should consult a gastroenterologist if your liver enzymes remain elevated on repeat testing, or if you experience symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing skin/eyes), abdominal pain, swelling, or unexplained fatigue.
Absolutely. Adopting a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting or avoiding alcohol can lower elevated enzyme levels and improve overall liver health.
The timeframe varies by cause. In many mild cases-such as those from medications or fatty liver-enzyme levels can normalize within weeks to a few months with appropriate lifestyle changes or treatment.
Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan. Our staff can verify your coverage and assist you with any necessary referrals so you can see our board-certified gastroenterologist without delay.
