Common blood tests for liver disease. Which ones are most useful?

Prompt diagnosis is important in patients who have elevated serum liver enzyme levels or biochemical markers. With understanding of the advantages and pitfalls of serologic tests commonly used for evaluation of liver disease, diagnosis can be approached in a rational and cost-effective manner. This article focuses on interpretation of results of the most useful tests. Discussion includes the nuances of laboratory evaluation of jaundice and current refinements in the use of liver enzyme measurements. Diagnostic tests for viral hepatitis also are discussed, with emphasis on recent developments in the evaluation of hepatitis B and C.