According to the Mayo Clinic, doctors can assess the health of an individual's liver by performing a liver function panel. A liver function panel is a series of blood tests that measures the levels of enzymes and proteins in the blood. These blood tests are performed to test for and monitor both liver damage and liver health. The American Academy of Family Physicians says that a liver function panel evaluates the levels of three enzymes that may be produced by liver damage or disease. The test also measures levels of the protein albumin and the blood waste product bilirubin. The combined results allow a doctor to assess the overall health of a patient's liver.
Step 1
Schedule a consultation with a general practitioner. Patients should consult with a medical professional regarding their concerns about liver health and the need to schedule blood tests to assess liver function. Typically, an individual needs to attend an appointment with his physician and discuss current health concerns, and the physician will then request a blood test.
Step 2
Follow the physician's instructions about preparing for the blood tests. The Mayo Clinic says that medications and some foods may effect the results of liver function panels, and as a result, a doctor may request that the patient fast for a period of time preceding the test. Patients may also be instructed to avoid certain medications.
Step 3
Have blood drawn for laboratory analysis. Depending on the medical facility, a patient may have blood drawn in a doctor's office or in a separate laboratory setting. Typically, an appointment time will be set for the testing, and the patient will be asked to provide a blood sample for analysis.
Step 4
Attend a follow-up appointment with the medical provider. The Mayo Clinic says that, in most cases, a doctor will review the results of liver function tests with a patient. The doctor will help the individual interpret the results, and if the results indicate liver damage or liver disease, the doctor will advise the patient on the appropriate treatment.
