Which enzyme is often measured to evaluate liver function in animals?

Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme commonly measured to evaluate liver function in animals. It is often associated with the liver because it is produced in high quantities in hepatic tissues. Elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase in the blood can indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, or other hepatobiliary disorders. Measuring this enzyme helps veterinarians assess the liver's ability to process and metabolize substances, which is crucial for maintaining overall health.

Amylase is primarily associated with the pancreas and is typically measured to evaluate pancreatic function rather than liver function. Creatinine is a waste product measured to assess kidney function, not liver function. Glucose levels indicate metabolic status and can reflect various conditions but are not specific indicators of liver health. Thus, alkaline phosphatase stands out as a key enzyme for evaluating liver function in veterinary patients.