Hepatic Function

Hepatic Function

Changes in hepatic synthetic function and metabolism occur during pregnancy. Plasma concentrations of fibrinogen, ceruloplasmin, transferin, and binding proteins such as thyroid-binding globulin increase. Total body albumin also increases, but the serum albumin levels fall by 20% because of the increased blood volume. Many liver enzymes are increased to the upper limits of their normal ranges including AST, ALT and LDH. A 400% increase in ALP may occur due to placental production of the enzyme. Certain signs of liver disease such as telengiectasia and palmer erythematic are common signs in normal pregnancy and resolve postpartum.