Liver function testing in a working population: three strategies to reduce false-positive results.

A very high rate of mildly abnormal results on a liver panel of five serum chemistries was observed when these tests were performed on a group of asymptomatic, normal workers. These results often led to lengthy delays in hiring, which benefited neither worker nor employer. Three strategies which markedly reduce the number of false-positive examinations with little or no reduction in test sensitivity are available.