significant liver damage (Stage III or Stage IV histology). The best biochemical tests of liver "function" are serum albumin concentration, serum bilirubin concentration and prothrombin time. In PBC, the serum bilirubin concentration (which may also be lowered by ursodiol) is probably the best biochemical predictor of disease progression. I also read that the terminology liver function can be a mistrued also. What the readings apparently indicate is possible liver damage but as I understand it, bilirubin is the one that is important as you have stated. Also with progression in liver conditions as there are others besides PBC as we know, others are noted that are quite normal in early stages (ie blood clotting time for eg of which you have also mentioned here as prombothin). Given the liver can repair itself to a certain extent, I personally conclude that that is why the bloods go up and down as in early stages of a liver condition I am confident in stating that the liver is still pretty good in attempting to repair itself. thanks.... thats some really good information. It makes alot of sense, but Im afraid MOST Dr's dont live by this. I had many many Dr's tell me NOTHING was wrong with me bceuase my LFT's were just barely, and I mean barely elevated. However Im seeing a excellent liver specialist who requested a liver biopsy which showed " INTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS". So to my surprise, I could very well see how this information you just gave me