Which lab test is typically used to monitor liver function?

Liver enzyme tests are specifically designed to assess liver function by measuring the levels of certain enzymes and substances in the blood that reflect the health and performance of the liver. Common enzymes measured include alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), among others. Elevated levels of these enzymes can indicate liver inflammation, damage, or disease, making them critical for diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

The complete blood count evaluates overall health and can reveal issues such as anemia or infection but does not provide specific information about liver function. The lipid panel measures cholesterol and triglycerides, which are important for cardiovascular health but unrelated to liver function monitoring. The thyroid panel focuses on the function of the thyroid gland and its hormones, not the liver. Therefore, liver enzyme tests are the correct choice, as they directly measure substances that indicate liver health and function.