Enzymes are specialized proteins involved in catalyzing chemical reactions in the body. Certain enzymes are normally present at high levels in liver cells. In the case of liver disease, enzymes can leak out of injured liver cells, resulting in abnormally high blood levels of liver enzymes. While liver enzyme tests act as markers of liver injurty, 'true' liver function tests reflect the ability of the liver to perform its various vital functions. Bilirubin in the blood is taken up and processed by the liver, then secreted into the bile.
Albumin is a major blood protein, produced by the liver.
In liver disease, albumin production is decreased, resulting in low blood level of albumin. The liver is responsible for producing clotting factors, blood proteins essential for blood coagulation. In liver disease, clotting factors are not produced normally. Although liver enzyme tests can indicate the presence of liver disease, and 'true' liver function tests can indicate compromised liver function, these tests alone may not be sufficient to provide a definitive diagnosis of the underlying cause of liver disease. Therefore, more specific tests may be performed, to make a more precise diagnosis.