The level of alkaline phosphatase in the blood is checked through the ALP test, which is often part of routine blood tests. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver and bones. The levels of this enzyme in the blood is dependent on several factors such as age, sex and blood type. Elevated levels of ALP in the blood could indicate issues relating to the liver, gall bladder or bones. As ALP is non specific, ALP is normally checked in addition to other liver function tests to determine whether the damage has occurred to the liver or the bones. Blood levels of ALP also increase two to four times during pregnancy and in growing teenagers.

Alanine transferase (ALT) is an enzyme that is produced by the liver. Elevated ALT can be indicative of inflammation of the liver characteristic of liver damage which may be caused by drugs, alcohol or viruses (hepatitis). High intensity exercise can also result in elevated levels of ALT.

Gamma GT is an enzyme found within the liver and is typically raised following diseases affecting this tissue or the bile ducts. Elevated ALP on its own cannot distinguish between liver or bone damage, however, when this value is combined with an elevated levels of gamma GT it is indicative of liver disease. Gamma GT can also be used to diagnose alcohol abuse as it is typically raised in the majority of long term drinkers.

Bilirubin is a yellow compound that is produced during the break down of haemoglobin. This is a necessary process in the body's clearance of waste products that arise from the destruction of aged or abnormal red blood cells. Bilirubin is removed from the body via the liver and excreted in bile and urine. The accumulation of bilirubin can result in jaundice which involves the yellowing discoloration of the whites of the eyes in addition to the skin. Elevated levels may indicate the livers inability to remove it from the blood and therefore can be a sign of liver damage. Certain diseases such as Gilberts syndrome or a blocked bile duct can also result in elevated levels of bilirubin.

Total Protein describes the total sum of globulin and albumin combined. Levels outside of the normal range can be indicative of kidney or liver disorders. Other causes of abnormal levels include malnutrition.

Albumin is primarily produced by the liver and is an important protein in preventing blood from leaking out of blood vessels. Other functions of albumin range from transporting substances such as medications through the blood to playing a role in the growth and repair of tissues. Elevated levels of albumin are typically caused by dehydration. In contrast, low levels may be indicative of liver disease, inflammation or malnutrition. Levels may also be raised in conditions such as diabetes.

Globulin may be produced by the immune system or the liver and consist of several different proteins with varying roles. For instance, some globulins are capable of binding to haemoglobin while others may be involved in the transport of substances like iron and in fighting infection.

AST is an enzyme your liver makes. Other organs, like your heart, kidneys, brain, and muscles, also make smaller amounts. AST is also called SGOT (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase).

Normally, AST levels in your blood are low. When your liver is damaged, it puts more AST into your blood, and your levels rise.

A high AST level is a sign of liver damage, but it can also mean you have damage to another organ that makes it, like your heart or kidneys.