Elevated Liver Function Tests
What Are Elevated Liver Function Tests?
Liver function tests are a group of blood tests that measure enzymes and proteins produced by the liver. When these test results are elevated, it may indicate that the liver is inflamed, injured, or not functioning as it should. While elevated liver enzymes do not always indicate a serious problem, they should be evaluated to determine the underlying cause.
At Birmingham Gastroenterology, we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for patients with elevated liver function tests to help identify liver conditions early and protect long-term liver health.
What Causes Elevated Liver Function Tests?
Many conditions can lead to elevated liver enzymes. Some of the most common causes include:
- Fatty liver disease
- Viral hepatitis
- Alcohol-related liver disease
- Certain medications or supplements
- Autoimmune liver diseases
- Hemochromatosis
- Wilson disease
- Bile duct disorders
- Cirrhosis
In some cases, elevated liver enzymes may be temporary and resolve on their own, while others require ongoing monitoring and treatment.
Symptoms
Many people with elevated liver function tests have no symptoms and learn about the condition through routine blood work. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right abdomen
- Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Dark urine
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Itchy skin
If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek evaluation from a gastroenterologist.
How Elevated Liver Function Tests Are Diagnosed
Your provider will review your medical history, medications, lifestyle, and symptoms to help determine the cause of your abnormal test results.
Additional testing may include:
- Repeat blood work
- Hepatitis screening
- Liver ultrasound
- CT scan or MRI
- FibroScan® to assess liver scarring
- Liver biopsy when necessary
These diagnostic tools help identify liver disease and guide the development of the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the abnormal liver tests.
Common treatment approaches include:
- Lifestyle changes, including healthy eating and weight management
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol
- Adjusting medications when appropriate
- Treating viral hepatitis or autoimmune liver disease
- Monitoring liver function over time
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent liver damage and improve overall health.
Why Choose Birmingham Gastroenterology?
Birmingham Gastroenterology offers advanced evaluation and treatment for elevated liver function tests and a wide range of liver conditions. Our experienced providers use comprehensive diagnostic testing to identify the cause of abnormal results and develop personalized treatment plans that support long-term liver health.
If you have been told your liver enzymes are elevated or are experiencing symptoms of liver disease, schedule an appointment with Birmingham Gastroenterology today by calling (205) 271-8000.