Which analyte is primarily evaluated in liver function tests?

In liver function tests, the primary analyte evaluated is alanine aminotransferase (ALT). ALT is an enzyme found mainly in the liver, and it plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, ALT is released into the bloodstream, making it a sensitive marker for liver injury. Elevated levels of ALT can indicate conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or liver cirrhosis. While other analytes like bilirubin, glucose, and lactate dehydrogenase also provide valuable information about liver function and overall health, ALT is especially significant for assessing liver cell integrity and function specifically.