Liver Function Test
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Liver Function Test
Liver Function Tests (LFT) are blood tests to help diagnose and monitor liver diseases like hepatitis or liver damage. These tests measure the levels of certain enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin (blood waste product) to determine how well the liver is carrying out its normal functions of producing proteins and removing bilirubin. Other tests measure enzymes released by liver cells in response to liver damage or disease. Thus, getting your liver function test done is recommended to screen and monitor liver diseases.
LFT test is also known as
LFT blood test, Liver profile, LFT test, Liver panel, Liver test and Hepatic panel
Functions of Liver
The liver is considered as the chemical factory of the body as it synthesizes many enzymes and chemicals needed for the body.
- The liver has following functions:
- It produces bile to break down fats in the intestine and also carry toxins out of the body.
- It has a major role in glucose, protein and fat metabolism.
- It stores iron, for use by the body as needed.
- It regulates blood clotting and immune functions.
- It detoxifies the body by clearing out toxic and harmful substances.
Symptoms of liver disease
The symptoms of liver disease include:
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Jaundice
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Nausea and vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Stomach pain
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Dark-coloured urine
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Light-coloured stool
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Fatigue
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Loss of appetite
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Swelling in the legs and ankles
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Family history of liver disease
When should someone get tested?
Liver function tests can be done for many reasons including:
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Screening for liver infections such as hepatitis and monitoring treatment
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Monitor the progression of certain diseases such as alcoholic hepatitis and viral hepatitis
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Checking the progress of liver disease or how the treatment process works for the patient
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Monitoring the side effects of various medicines
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Checking blood protein and enzyme levels
Test preparation
Some liver panels require fasting for up to 12 hours before the test, only drinking water during this time is recommended. Some medications can also affect the liver, so ensure your doctor is aware about what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely.
Interpretation of the Test Results
| Parameters | Normal liver function test values |
|---|---|
| Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) | 13 – 69 U/L |
| Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) | 15 – 46 U/L |
| Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) | 38 – 126 U/L |
| Total Serum Protein | 5.5 – 8.0 g/L |
| Albumin | 3.5 – 5.0 g/L |
| Globulin | 2.0 – 3.5 g/L |
| Total Bilirubin | 0.0 – 1.1 mg/dL |
| Conjugated bilirubin (direct) | 0.0 – 0.3 mg/dL |
| Unconjugated bilirubin (indirect) | 0.0 – 1.1 mg/dL |
| Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) | 9 – 48 U/L |
| L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD) | 100 – 280 U/L |
| Prothrombin time (PT) | Normal range (not on blood-thinning medicines):
On blood thinners • INR of 0.8 – 1.1 |
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
- A higher ALT test result than normal can be a sign of liver damage. Very high levels are most often caused by viral hepatitis, ischemic hepatitis, or injury from drugs or other chemicals.
- A high result of AST may be because of a problem with your liver or muscles. Elevated AST without elevated ALT may indicate heart or muscle disease. If ALT, bilirubin, and ALP are also elevated, it may indicate liver damage.
- Elevated levels of ALP may be a sign of liver inflammation, blockage of the bile ducts, or bone disease.
- A low albumin test result may indicate that the liver is not functioning properly. This occurs in diseases such as cirrhosis of the liver, malnutrition, and cancer.
- A high bilirubin test result may indicate that the liver is not functioning properly. Elevated bilirubin levels with elevated ALT or AST levels may indicate cirrhosis or hepatitis.
- A high GGT test result may indicate damage to the liver or bile ducts.
- Elevated levels of LD or PT may indicate liver damage.
FAQs on Liver Function Test
Liver function test results usually take a few hours to one day, though in some cases they may take longer
The test carries minimal risk. You may experience slight bruising, tenderness, or discomfort at the needle insertion site
Although generally accurate, liver function test results can be affected by factors such as alcohol use, certain medications, immune-related conditions, liver inflammation, or bile duct blockage caused by gallstones
Abnormal results may indicate liver damage or disease. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests such as imaging, viral markers, or a liver biopsy before deciding on a treatment plan
You can maintain liver health by limiting alcohol intake, reducing fatty foods, avoiding unnecessary medications, ensuring safe tattoo and piercing practices, and getting vaccinated for hepatitis A or B when needed
Liver Function Test
