Very Common
Less Common
Related Observations
Your vet might choose this diagnostic test if you were making these observations.
Diagnostic
Tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what is wrong with your horse, in order to reach a diagnosis.
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
YOUR VET MAY PERFORM
Liver Function Tests
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
Summary
Liver function tests measure the liver's ability to perform its job. They differ in this way from liver enzyme levels, which only measure recent liver damage.
Bile Acids is an example of a liver function test. If there is blockage of the bile duct, bile acids should be expected to increase in the blood.
Liver function tests are complementary to determination of liver enzyme levels. They provide a more true picture of the effectiveness of the liver to do its job. In this way, they can help determine prognosis.
Liver function tests are generally performed on blood samples. Some may be performed in-clinic while others must be sent off to specialty laboratories.
Bile Acids is an example of a liver function test. If there is blockage of the bile duct, bile acids should be expected to increase in the blood.
Liver function tests are complementary to determination of liver enzyme levels. They provide a more true picture of the effectiveness of the liver to do its job. In this way, they can help determine prognosis.
Liver function tests are generally performed on blood samples. Some may be performed in-clinic while others must be sent off to specialty laboratories.
Why A Vet Chooses This Diagnostic
Related Diagnostics
Other diagnostic tests that might be used in combination or with this one or instead of this one.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
This test could rule out or confirm any of the following diagnoses.
BENEFITS
Provide a snapshot of the liver's ability to do certain aspects of its job. LIMITATIONS
Does not indicate liver damage, only function.
Fasting may cause increases in bile acids levels, complicating interpretation.
Time delay in receiving the results due to off-site laboratory testing.
Related References:
Lavoie JP, Hinchcliff KW eds. Blackwell's 5 Minute Vet Consult: Equine. 2nd Ed. Ames: Wiley Blackwell 2008.