What are liver enzymes?

Liver enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions and processes in the liver. According to MedicineNet, the most common liver enzymes are aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase.

If the liver is damaged or inflamed, enzymes and proteins escape into the bloodstream where they can be measured with a blood test, notes MedicineNet. A doctor orders liver function tests if a patient has symptoms of a possible liver problem, according to WebMD. The tests commonly measure liver enzymes, albumin and clotting proteins, and bilirubin. The results show the doctor which part of the liver is malfunctioning.