Which tests can indicate possible liver disorders through urine analysis?

Urine analysis can reveal several indicators of liver function, particularly through the tests of urine bilirubin and urobilinogen. When the liver is functioning properly, bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, is processed and mostly excreted through bile into the intestines. If the liver is damaged or has some form of disorder, this processing is impaired, leading to an increase in bilirubin levels in the urine. Similarly, urobilinogen, which is formed in the intestines from bilirubin, can also be affected by liver function. Elevated levels of urobilinogen can suggest liver disease or hemolysis, while decreased levels may indicate cholestasis, where bile cannot flow properly.

Other tests mentioned, such as the stool fat test, complete blood counts, and lipid panels, serve different purposes and do not directly reflect liver function through urine analysis. While they can provide information about gastrointestinal health and other systemic conditions, they do not specifically indicate liver disorders in the way that urine bilirubin and urobilinogen tests do. Thus, urine bilirubin and urobilinogen tests are essential for diagnosing potential liver issues.