Which laboratory test is often elevated in cases of liver dysfunction?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is a key enzyme that is often elevated in cases of liver dysfunction. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, ALT is released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels. This enzyme is predominantly found in the liver, making it a specific marker for liver injury.

Though aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is also associated with liver function, it is found in a variety of tissues, including the heart and muscles, which can lead to elevations from non-liver-related issues as well. The bilirubin test assesses the liver's ability to process waste products, but it does not directly indicate the status of liver cell function. Likewise, the albumin test measures liver synthetic function but is not typically elevated immediately after liver injury; instead, albumin levels may decrease with prolonged liver dysfunction.

In summary, ALT is the most reliable indicator of acute liver cell injury, making it the most directly relevant test for identifying liver dysfunction.