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Serum or plasma substance concentration for a specific marker related to liver function (e.g., bilirubin, albumin, or other hepatic metabolites)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures certain substances in your blood that help assess how well your liver is working.

Quick summary

["Helps identify liver health and potential issues early."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12679-7
Short code
LH sp4 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
LH sp4 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83002
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 This Test Measures

Your blood sample will be tested for specific substances that reflect liver function. These substances may include proteins, enzymes, or metabolites produced by the liver. The test uses a sensitive method to detect these substances accurately.

Why It Matters

Your liver processes nutrients, detoxifies chemicals, and produces proteins needed for blood clotting and immunity. Abnormal levels of these substances can signal liver disease, inflammation, or other conditions.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Detect

This test may be used to diagnose or monitor liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or liver tumors. It can also help track how well treatment is working or if liver function is improving over time.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This process typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch during the draw.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Liver function marker (serum/plasma)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For most liver function tests, you may eat and drink normally unless your provider specifies otherwise. Some tests may require fasting, so check with your provider beforehand.
What are the possible risks or side effects of this test?
The most common side effect is a slight bruise, redness, or soreness at the injection site. Rarely, there may be a small risk of infection or excessive bleeding. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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