Which laboratory marker is commonly evaluated for hepatobiliary concerns?

Total bilirubin is a key laboratory marker evaluated in the context of hepatobiliary concerns because it provides important insights into the liver's ability to process and excrete bile. When the liver functions properly, it conjugates bilirubin — a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown — and facilitates its elimination through bile. Elevated levels of total bilirubin in the blood can indicate various conditions affecting the liver, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction, reflecting impaired liver function or bile flow.

When considering other markers, while alkaline phosphatase can also be relevant in assessing hepatobiliary function and could indicate biliary obstruction or liver disease, total bilirubin directly measures the end result of liver processing and is one of the primary tests used. Creatinine and blood urea nitrogen are more associated with kidney function and are not specifically indicative of liver pathology.