LFTs are usually normal in uncomplicated cases of connective tissue diseases with the exception of mild non-specific elevation in alkaline phosphatase as a reflection of chronic inflammation. These tests are important at baseline and for regular monitoring for those therapies that may be associated with hepatic dysfunction. This includes mild elevation of transaminases in patients on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and in patients receiving hepatotoxic therapies such as methotrexate, which can lead to significant disruption in liver function tests.

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