Home> LIVER FUNCTION TEST (LFT-A)
LFT (Liver Function Test) is a blood test that evaluates the health and function of your liver. It measures levels of certain enzymes, proteins, and substances produced by the liver.
Conditions and diseases diagnosed and monitored using LFT include (but aren’t limited to):
Liver function tests measure various substances in the blood to assess liver health.
- Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Transaminase (AST): These Enzymes primarily found in liver cells. They are involved in protein metabolism. Elevated levels indicate liver cell damage, often seen in hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver failure.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): It is an enzyme found in the liver, bones, and intestines and involved in various biochemical processes. While ALP is generally found in pregnant women, elevated levels can indicate liver disease or bone disorders.
- Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow to orange pigment formed as a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. The liver processes bilirubin and excretes it in bile. Elevated bilirubin levels, often manifesting as jaundice, can indicate liver dysfunction, biliary obstruction, or other underlying medical conditions.
- Albumin: It is a primary protein synthesized by the liver. It helps regulate oncotic pressure, facilitating fluid balance within blood vessels; transports various substances including hormones, fatty acids, and drugs; and contributes to immune function. Decreased albumin levels can indicate kidney and liver dysfunction, malnutrition, or other underlying medical conditions.
- GGT: Gamma to glutamyl transferase (GGT) is an enzyme primarily concentrated in the liver. Elevated GGT levels in the blood often indicate liver damage, particularly due to alcohol abuse, biliary tract disorders, or certain medications.
- Prothrombin Time (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR): The liver synthesizes several proteins essential for coagulation. Prothrombin time measures how long it takes blood to clot, while the International Normalized Ratio (INR) standardizes these results for comparison across different laboratories. An extended PT or elevated INR often indicates impaired liver function or a deficiency in clotting factors produced by the liver.
These parameters, when interpreted together with clinical symptoms and other tests, provide valuable insights into liver function and help diagnose various liver diseases.
Doctors order liver function tests to:
Typically, no special preparation is needed for a liver function test. However, it's essential to:
- Some medications can influence test results. Provide a complete list of what you're taking, including over to the counter drugs and supplements. Always consult your doctor before consuming or stopping any medication before the LFT. Certain medications can interfere with liver function test results. Common culprits include:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Statin drugs
- Antibiotics
- Birth control pills
- Over to the to counter pain relievers
- Mention any recent illnesses, surgeries, or liver to related problems.
- In some cases, your doctor might request fasting for a specific period before the test.
Individuals who would benefit from an LFT or liver function test include (but aren’t limited to):
Regular check to ups might also include a liver function test as part of routine blood work. Talk to your physician to understand if you might need an LFT or Liver function test.
The liver produces and processes many substances in the blood. When the liver is damaged, these substances can be released into the bloodstream in abnormal amounts. By measuring these levels, doctors can get a picture of how well your liver is functioning.
The lab technicians measure the levels of various substances in your bloodstream, such as enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin by analyzing the blood sample procured.
Several laboratory techniques are employed to measure the different components of a liver function test. Here are the primary methods:
These techniques, along with careful calibration and quality control, ensure accurate and reliable liver function test results.
Liver function tests are generally considered to be a low to risk procedure. The primary potential adverse event is associated with the blood draw itself rather than the analysis of the sample.
Commonly reported discomforts include (but aren’t limited to):
It's important to note that these potential adverse events are minor and temporary. The benefits of obtaining accurate liver function data typically outweigh these minimal risks.
Normal ranges for liver function tests can vary slightly between laboratories. However, a general reference range is provided below:
Normal ALT Levels:
- Normal Alanine Transaminase (ALT) Levels for Men: 0 to 50 IU/L (International Units per Liter)
- Normal Alanine Transaminase (ALT) Levels for Women: 0 to 35 IU/L
Normal AST Range:
- Normal Aspartate Transaminase (AST) range for men: 0 to 50 IU/L (International Units per Liter)
- Normal Aspartate Transaminase (AST) range for women: 0 to 35 IU/L
Normal Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) levels for adult women ranges from 33 to 98 IU/L (International Units per Liter)
Normal Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) levels for adult men ranges from 43 to 115 IU/L (International Units per Liter)
Normal Bilirubin Range:
- Normal Total Bilirubin for both adult men and women ranges from 0.3 to 1.2 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter)
- Normal Direct Bilirubin for both adult men and women should be lower than 0.2 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter)
- Normal Indirect Bilirubin for both adult men and women should be lower than 1 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter)
Normal Albumin levels range from 3.5 to 5.2 g/dL
Normal GGT Range:
- Normal Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) levels for Men ranges from 0 to 55 IU/L (International Units per Liter)
- Normal Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) levels for Women ranges from 0 to 38 IU/L
Deviations from normal ranges can indicate liver problems:
It's essential to note that isolated abnormalities in one or two liver enzymes may not necessarily indicate liver disease. A comprehensive evaluation by a doctor or hepatologist, considering other factors like symptoms and medical history, is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
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Ans) There's no specific time requirement for a liver function test. It can be done at any time convenient for you. If it’s part of a routine health check up involving other diagnostic tests then it’s better to consult a doctor or a medical professional to understand the best time for the tes.
Ans) The turnaround time for LFT results typically ranges from 6 to 8 hours, depending on the laboratory's processing speed and the current load at the diagnostic center.
Ans) The frequency of LFTs depends on individual health conditions and risk factors. People with chronic liver conditions, those on certain medications, or individuals with risk factors for liver disease may need regular monitoring, as advised by their hepatologist or doctor.
Ans) Normal liver function test results vary slightly between laboratories, but typical ranges include:
Ans) While LFTs can indicate liver damage or inflammation, they cannot detect all liver problems. They are useful for screening and monitoring liver function but may need to be complemented with other diagnostic tests, such as imaging or liver biopsy, to diagnose specific conditions
Ans) LFTs can suggest fatty liver if elevated levels of liver enzymes are present, particularly ALT and AST. However, a definitive diagnosis of fatty liver typically requires imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan.
Ans) The cost of a Liver Function Test may significantly vary depending on factors like the diagnostic center or hospital where you get the Liver Function Test, location of the diagnostic center or hospital. The Liver Function Test test price at Vijaya Diagnostic typically ranges from just INR 400 to INR 650. Plus, with app-only discounts and cashbacks, taking care of your health has never been easier or more rewarding.
Ans) Yes, an ALT level of 70 units per liter is considered elevated, as the normal range usually tops out at 56 units per liter. Elevated ALT levels indicate liver inflammation or damage and should be evaluated by a hepatologist or doctor.
Ans) Milk, particularly low-fat or fat-free milk, can be part of a healthy diet for individuals with fatty liver. It provides essential nutrients without adding excessive fat, which can help manage the condition. Talk to your nutritionist or doctor for personalized advice.
Ans) Eggs can be part of a balanced diet for those with fatty liver. They are a good source of protein and other nutrients. However, moderation is key, and it's important to consider the overall fat and cholesterol intake in your diet.
ans) Five superfoods beneficial for liver health include:
ans) LFTs are performed to assess liver health, detect liver damage or inflammation, monitor the progression of liver disease, evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, and screen for liver conditions in individuals at risk.
ans) LFTs typically measure the following:
- alanine transaminase (ALT)
- aspartate transaminase (AST)
- alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
- Bilirubin
- Albumin
- gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)
- prothrombin time (PT) or international normalized ratio (INR)
ans) Abnormal LFT results may indicate liver damage, inflammation, or disease. However, it’s essential to interpret results in conjunction with other symptoms and diagnostic tests.
ans) Usually, no special preparation is required. However, inform your doctor about any medications you're taking and follow all the guidelines provided by them meticulously. Typically, fasting before an LFT isn’t necessary but verify this with your doctor.
ans) Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can significantly elevate the LFT results. Refrain from drinking alcohol before a liver function test.
ans) Some over-the-counter medications like painkillers can influence LFT results. Inform your doctor about all medications you're taking.
ans) Both ALT and AST are liver enzymes. However, ALT is more specific to liver damage, while AST can also be elevated in heart and muscle damage.