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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
11:06
Human Liver Microphysiological System for Assessing Drug-Induced Liver Toxicity In Vitro
Published on: January 31, 2022
Liver function test and pregnancy.
Pradumna Jamjute1, Amir Ahmad, Tarun Ghosh
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, North Wales NHS Trust, Rhyl, North Wales, UK. pjamjute@hotmail.co.uk
Summary
Pregnancy involves transient liver function changes. Accurate interpretation of liver function tests (LFTs) is crucial for managing pregnancy-related liver disorders and preventing complications for mother and fetus.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hepatology
- Clinical Biochemistry
Background:
- Physiological liver changes during pregnancy are typically transient.
- Pregnancy-specific liver disorders like pre-eclampsia, acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP), and HELLP syndrome pose significant risks.
- Standard liver function tests (LFTs) are essential for early detection and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of commonly used liver function tests (LFTs) in pregnancy.
- To discuss potential pitfalls in interpreting basic blood LFTs during gestation.
- To provide an approach for interpreting abnormal LFTs in pregnant individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of biochemical tests used for assessing liver function.
- Discussion of the pathophysiology of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, bile acids, serum bilirubin, serum albumin, and prothrombin time.
- Analysis of interpretation strategies for abnormal LFTs in the context of pregnancy.
Main Results:
- LFTs primarily indicate liver injury, not necessarily hepatic function.
- Normal LFTs do not always confirm normal liver health.
- Abnormal LFTs can suggest liver issues but require careful interpretation.
Conclusions:
- Timely and accurate interpretation of LFTs is vital for managing maternal and fetal complications.
- Understanding LFTs' limitations and potential interpretation pitfalls is crucial.
- A systematic approach to interpreting abnormal LFTs aids in diagnosing and managing pregnancy-related liver conditions.
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