Hepatic Function Panel

The 10 tests in this panel

What each one measures and the range labs usually print for adults. Ranges differ a little between labs, so the range on your own report is the one your result is judged against.

• Protein, Total

  The total amount of protein in your blood, mainly albumin and globulin. It is read together with albumin and your liver and kidney tests.

  18+

  6–8.5 g/dL

• Albumin

  The main protein in blood plasma. Made by the liver, it keeps fluid inside your blood vessels and carries many substances.

  Adults

  3.5–5 g/dL

• Globulin, Total

  The proteins in your blood other than albumin, including antibodies. Most reports calculate it as total protein minus albumin.

  18+

  1.5–4.5 g/dL

• Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio

  A calculated comparison of two groups of blood proteins, albumin and globulins. It is one clue about the liver, kidneys and immune system.

  Adults

  1.2–2.2 ratio

• Bilirubin, Total

  A yellow pigment made when old red blood cells break down. Your liver clears it, so the level reflects red cell turnover and bile flow.

  18+

  0–1.2 mg/dL

• Bilirubin, Direct

  The part of bilirubin your liver has already processed. A raised level can be a sign that bile isn't draining from the liver as usual.

  18+

  0–0.4 mg/dL

• Bilirubin, Indirect

  The part of bilirubin that has not yet been processed by the liver. It is worked out by subtracting direct bilirubin from total bilirubin.

  18+

  0.1–0.8 mg/dL

• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

  An enzyme made mostly in your liver, bile ducts and bones. Its blood level gives clues about those tissues.

  Men, 19+

  40–129 U/L

  Women, 17+

  35–104 U/L

• Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

  An enzyme found mainly in the liver, and also in muscle and heart. Raised blood levels can be a sign of damage to those cells.

  Men, 14+

  8–48 U/L

  Women, 14+

  8–43 U/L

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

  An enzyme made mostly in liver cells. It leaks into the blood when liver cells are irritated or damaged.

  Men, 18+

  0–44 U/L

  Women, 18+

  0–32 U/L