liver function test

Objectives By the end of this lecture, students should know how to
Describe the anatomy of liver, blood supply and the function of liver.
Outline the component of liver function test (LFT) and its clinical use.

The Function of LiverLiver is largest and most complex internal organ
All blood flow from intestine and pancreas reaches liver via portal venous system
Liver is a multifunctional organ that is involved in diverse body functions.

Metabolic Functions
Liver actively participates in carbohydrate metabolism, lipid, protein, mineral and vitamin metabolisms.
Excretory Functions
Bile pigments, bile salts and cholesterol are excreted in bile into intestine.


Protective functions & detoxification
Kupffer cells of liver perform phagocytosis to eliminate foreign compounds. For example ammonia is detoxified to urea and metabolism of xenobiotics (detoxification).
Clearance of hormones such as insulin, parathyroid hormone, oestrogen, cortisol

Hematological and synthetic functions
Liver participates in formation of blood (particularly in embryo)
Synthesis of plasma proteins (albumin and prothrombin), hormones e.g angiotensinogen, insulin-like growth factor and triiodothyronine.
Destruction of erythrocytes (Bilirubin)
5. Storage functions
Glycogen, vitamins A, D and B12

6. Serum enzymes
Acting as markers of liver damage