Which test is commonly used to evaluate hepatic disease?

The test that is commonly used to evaluate hepatic disease is alanine aminotransferase (ALT). ALT is an enzyme primarily found in the liver, and its levels in the bloodstream increase when liver cells are damaged or inflamed. This makes ALT a highly sensitive marker for liver injury and is often measured in conjunction with aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to help assess the extent and possible causes of hepatic disease.

While other tests listed, such as AST, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin, also provide insights into liver function and potential liver disease, ALT is specifically closely associated with liver cell damage. Elevated levels of ALT can signal conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and other hepatic disorders, making it a crucial component of liver function testing.