Liver tests

Liver function tests

Liver function tests refer to laboratory tests that are used to diagnose and monitor liver diseases. Liver blood tests, as described below, look at how well the liver functions. 

Name and abbreviation of the test: SERUM ALANINE AMINOTRANSFERASE P -ALAT

ALAT is an abbreviation for alanine aminotransferase – an enzyme inside liver cells, related to amino acid metabolism. The determination of ALAT is the primary screening test for liver cell injury or inflammation. The examination will be done from a blood sample.

The ALAT value may increase for a variety of reasons. A so-called fatty liver, heavy and frequent alcohol consumption (not for everybody), infections of the liver caused by viruses and medicines, sepsis (blood poisoning), some muscle diseases, heart failure or kidney failure can cause an increase. The reference ALAT value of the liver is below 35 U/l for women over 17 years of age and below 50 U/l for men over 17 years of age.

Name and abbreviation of the test: ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE P – AFOS

Alkaline phosphatase (AFOS) is an enzyme that works in liver cells. It responds mainly to bile secretion disorders. The value may also increase during hepatitis, but to a lesser extent than ALAT. The test is mainly used to diagnose and monitor bone and liver diseases. In the AFOS test, the reference value for adults over 18 years of age is 35–105 U/l.

Test results

• Reference values

  SERUM ALANINE AMINOTRANSFERASE P -ALAT

  women, ≥ 17 years of age: below 35 U/l
  men, ≥ 17 years of age: below 50 U/l

  ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE P – AFOS

  Adults over 18 years of age: 35–105 U/l

About the test

• General

  The examination is carried out from a blood sample. Liver tests do not require fasting or morning sampling.

• Who will interpret my examination results?

  Please note that the doctor in charge of the treatment is always responsible for interpreting the results. Consult your doctor if you have any questions regarding the examination results.