The liver function test (LFT) refers to a group of blood tests that evaluate the health and function of the liver. These tests assess various enzymes, proteins, and other substances present in the blood that are produced by the liver. The LFT typically includes the measurements of liver enzymes such as aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) as well as bilirubin, albumin, and alkaline phosphatase levels. LFTs are used to detect liver diseases, monitor liver function during treatment, and assess overall liver health.

How do I test liver function?

Liver function is commonly assessed with the help of a series of blood tests known as liver function tests (LFTs). These tests are ordered by a healthcare professional and involve drawing a blood sample from a vein. The main components measured in LFTs include: Total protein Albumin Bilirubin Lactate dehydrogenase Prothrombin time Aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase levels

What does a liver function test show?

Liver function tests (LFTs) provide information valuable to healthcare providers, indicating various aspects of liver health and function. By analysing different values and ratios of substances, LFTs help in the following: Detecting the presence of liver inflammation Distinguishing between alcohol-related and non-alcoholic causes of a liver disease Determining the issues within the liver or bile ducts Assessment of liver function impairment and the extent of the impairment Evaluation of bile flow impairment and its severity Detection of any impact of medications on liver function and the degree of that impact

LFT - What, Why, How of Liver Function Test

Liver function test (LFT test) is also known as the liver panel test or liver chemistries that determine the overall health condition of your liver. This liver test measures various enzymes, proteins, bilirubin, and other substances in your blood. This LFT blood test is also referred by doctors to monitor the progress of an existing liver disease treatment. This test is also performed to screen some diseases, including hepatitis, the severity of liver diseases, side effects of medicines, and so on. If your Liver Function Test Report shows the LFT normal range, it means your liver is working fine. LFT

Test Summary

Also known as	Liver Function Test, Liver Panel Test, Liver Chemistries
Test Type	Blood
Liver function test includes	ALT, AST, ALP, Albumin Test, Bilirubin Test, GGT, LD, PT
Preparation	You may need to fast 10-12 hrs. before the test
Reporting	Within 24 hrs
Test price	The price of this test may vary from city to city and from lab to lab
Also included in	Health Insurance Plans
Related tests	C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Blood Sugar Test, CBC, Ultrasound, Fibroscan, Liver Biopsy

What is the LFT Test?

The LFT test monitors the condition of your liver. Under certain situations, this test is recommended by the doctor.

Certain medical conditions like diabetes, blood pressure, and anemia
To monitor certain liver diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, cirrhosis, fibrosis, etc.
If you already have liver disease, this test will help your doctor to monitor the progress of your treatment
If you have a family history of liver disease like fatty liver disease
To monitor side effects of certain medications NSAIDs, Statins, antibiotics, tuberculosis drugs, etc.
If you drink alcohol frequently
If you have a gallbladder disease

Types of LFT Test

Alanine Transaminase (ALT): This enzyme presents in your liver and converts proteins into energy for the liver cells. If your liver is damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream and its level increases.
Aspartate Transaminase (AST): This enzyme assists in metabolizing amino acids. An increase in AST levels may show liver damage, disease, or muscle damage.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): This enzyme is present in the liver and bone and is imperative for breaking down proteins. Higher levels of ALP may indicate liver damage or disease.
Albumin and Total Protein: This protein is made by the liver. Your body requires this protein to fight various infections and to perform other functions.
Bilirubin: Bilirubin passes through the liver and is expelled in the stool. Elevated levels of bilirubin (jaundice) may indicate liver damage or disease.
Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT): GGT is an enzyme in the blood. Higher levels of GGT may indicate liver or bile duct damage.
L-lactate Dehydrogenase (LD): LD usually presents in the liver. An enhanced level of this enzyme may indicate liver damage.
Prothrombin Time (PT): PT is the time it takes your blood to clot. Increased PT may indicate liver damage but may be enhanced due to several other reasons like blood-thinning drugs, such as warfarin.

LFT Test Normal Range

Parameters	Unit	Normal range
ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE(ALP	U/I	42-98
BILIRUBIN -DIRECT	mg/dl	<0.3
INDIRECT-BILIRUBIN	mg/dl	0-0.9
BILIRUBIN -TOTAL	mg/dl	0.3-1.2
ASPARTATE AMINOTRANSFERASE (SGOT)	U/I	Less Than 31
ALANINE TRANSAMINASE (SGPT)	U/I	10-28
GAMMA-GLUTAMYL TRANSFERASE (GGT)	U/I	<38
PROTEIN – TOTAL	gm/dl	5.7-8.2
ALBUMIN – SERUM	gm/dl	3.2-4.8
SERUM GLOBULIN	gm/dl	2.5-3.4

Liver function test results may vary from lab to lab and might be marginally different for women and children. Depending on your LFT test report, your doctor will decide what treatments you need for your disease.

How do you Prepare for liver function blood Test?

Some foods and medications may interfere with the results of your liver function tests. Your doctor will advise you to stay away from eating food and taking some medications before the test.

What Can You Expect from a LFT Test?

During the Test

Once you reach your nearest hospital or lab, a technician will collect the blood sample for liver function tests by inserting a small needle into a vein (preferably from the upper arm). The needle is attached to a small tube where your collected blood will be deposited. You may experience sharp pain when the needle is inserted into your arm.

After the Test

Your sample will be sent to the laboratory for further analysis. You may get the results after some hours.

Takeaway

A liver function test is a straightforward method for you and your healthcare provider to assess the condition of your liver. It can be used to investigate a liver disease or examine the impact of a medication or treatment. By analysing a small blood sample, valuable information about your liver can be obtained. While liver function tests may not be sufficient to make a definitive diagnosis, the results serve as a guide for further actions and decision-making.