Hepatic Function Panel with Bromocresol Green (BCG) Assay – Serum
This test measures how your liver processes certain substances, including proteins and bile acids, using a specific dye reaction. It helps assess liver health and function.
["This test helps doctors check if your liver is working properly or if there may be liver disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11934-7
- Short code
- GA from HC.Jeanty84
- Synonyms
- GA from HC.Jeanty84
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-estimated-from-hc-jeanty
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The Bromocresol Green (BCG) assay evaluates the liver’s ability to metabolize and excrete proteins and bile acids. It indirectly reflects liver enzyme activity and protein synthesis capacity. This method is often used alongside other liver function tests to provide a comprehensive picture of liver health.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), abdominal pain, or if you have a history of liver disease, alcohol use, or exposure to toxins. It can also be part of routine health checks for individuals at higher risk.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion is then tested using the BCG dye method to measure its ability to bind and release the dye under different conditions, reflecting liver function.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are typically qualitative (yes/no) or semi-quantitative, indicating whether the liver’s processing capacity is within expected ranges or altered. Exact values may not be provided, but patterns or deviations from normal can signal potential issues.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is useful for diagnosing or monitoring liver conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or bile duct obstructions. It complements other tests like liver enzymes (e.g., ALT, AST) and albumin levels by offering a different perspective on liver function, particularly in cases where protein synthesis or bile flow may be affected.
Short name
BCG Liver Function Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy