Is fasting required for liver function tests?

Dec 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, liver function tests usually require fasting. Liver function is assessed by indicators such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and cholinesterase, which help determine whether liver damage exists and its severity. Therefore, to ensure accurate test results, it is essential to strictly follow the doctor's instructions.

Generally, liver function tests usually require fasting. The specific analysis is as follows:

Liver function is assessed by indicators such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and cholinesterase to determine whether there is liver damage and its severity. After eating, the liver participates in the digestive process, leading to hepatic glycogenolysis, fat accumulation, and other changes. These factors may affect blood concentration, causing increased blood viscosity or even serum precipitation, which can interfere with liver function test results and lead to inaccuracies. Therefore, it is recommended to remain in a fasting state before undergoing a liver function test.

Thus, to ensure accurate test results, it is important to strictly follow the doctor's recommendations. Additionally, it is also important to stay relaxed and avoid excessive anxiety before the examination.

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