Liver enzymes

Liver enzymes are proteins produced by the liver that help regulate chemical reactions in the body. When liver cells are healthy, these enzymes stay inside the liver. However, if the liver is damaged or inflamed due to conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease, the enzymes can leak into the bloodstream. Commonly tested liver enzymes include ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT, which provide clues about liver health. Elevated levels can indicate liver injury or disease, prompting further investigation. Monitoring these enzymes helps doctors diagnose liver problems, assess their severity, and monitor treatment response.