What Are Abnormal Results of Liver Function Studies?
Liver function studies measure enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT), bilirubin and proteins (albumin) in your blood. When one or more of these values fall outside the normal range, it signals possible liver injury, inflammation or impaired synthetic function.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD)
- Viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E)
- Medications and toxins (e.g., acetaminophen overdose, certain antibiotics or statins)
- Metabolic/genetic disorders (hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease)
- Autoimmune liver diseases (autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis)
- Obesity, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia
- Bile duct obstruction (gallstones, primary sclerosing cholangitis)
- Acute fatty liver of pregnancy
Signs and Symptoms
- Often none in early or mild cases
- Fatigue, weakness or malaise
- Poor appetite, nausea or unintentional weight loss
- Mild pain or fullness in the upper right abdomen
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine or pale, clay-colored stools
- Itchy skin (pruritus)
- Abdominal swelling (ascites) or leg edema in advanced disease
- Easy bruising or bleeding (coagulopathy)
How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Abnormal Results Of Liver Function Studies?
Dr. Rishi Chadha uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History & Physical Exam
He reviews your personal and family medical history, current medications, alcohol use, and checks for signs of liver enlargement or jaundice.
Blood Tests
We measure ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, and albumin to assess enzyme levels, protein synthesis, and cholestatic markers.
Imaging Studies
- Abdominal ultrasound to detect fatty infiltration, assess liver size, and identify any masses.
- FibroScan (transient elastography) or MR elastography to noninvasively evaluate liver stiffness and fibrosis.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
When results remain unclear, an MRI offers detailed soft-tissue images, and a liver biopsy can confirm the diagnosis and grade inflammation or scarring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does abnormal liver function result mean?
It means one or more liver test values are outside the healthy range, possibly indicating liver stress, inflammation, or damage.
What are the normal ranges for liver tests?
Typical ranges vary by lab, but ALT & AST are usually 7-56 U/L. Dr. Chadha interprets results based on your symptoms and health history.
Should I be concerned about mildly elevated liver enzymes?
Not always, but it warrants monitoring. Dr. Chadha will look for trends and possible causes to decide if treatment is needed.
How does Dr. Chadha evaluate abnormal results?
He conducts a thorough review of your labs, medical history, medications, alcohol use, and orders imaging or further testing if necessary.
Can infections cause abnormal liver results?
Yes. Hepatitis viruses, Epstein-Barr virus, and other infections may elevate liver enzymes temporarily or long-term.
Do abnormal liver results always require treatment?
No. Some cases resolve with diet and lifestyle changes. Others need medical therapy or close observation.
What role does imaging play?
Ultrasound or FibroScan help detect fatty liver, fibrosis, or other structural liver issues. Dr. Chadha uses them to complement lab findings.
What are the signs of serious liver issues?
Symptoms like jaundice, confusion, fluid buildup, and sudden fatigue may signal severe liver disease and should be evaluated urgently.
Can abnormal results indicate fatty liver?
Yes. Fatty liver is a common cause of abnormal liver results, especially in people with obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
Where can I get expert evaluation?
Contact Dr. Rishi Chadha at GastroDoxs in Houston for comprehensive liver testing, diagnosis, and treatment planning.