Liver Function Tests: All You Need To Know

Team MyMeds247 |  Chronic Conditions | February 05, 2024

Liver Function Tests (LFTs), also called hepatic function tests or liver panels, are a set of blood tests offering crucial insights into the liver's health and functionality. As a vital organ, the liver plays a pivotal role in metabolism, detoxification, protein synthesis, and bile production. These tests aid healthcare professionals in evaluating the overall health of the liver and identifying potential diseases or disorders.

Liver function tests comprise a series of blood tests designed to evaluate the health and functionality of the liver. They measure various enzymes, proteins, and substances to gauge how effectively the liver is performing its essential tasks.

Types of Liver Function Tests

A multitude of liver function tests can be conducted, each examining a distinct component of liver function. Alanine transaminase (ALT), Aspartate transaminase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Bilirubin, Albumin and Total Protein, L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD), and Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) are some of the most common tests.

• Alanine Transaminase (ALT): Elevated levels may signal liver damage or inflammation.
• Aspartate Transaminase (AST): Similar to ALT, elevated AST levels can indicate liver dysfunction.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): High levels may suggest liver or bone issues.
• Bilirubin: Elevated levels may indicate problems with bile flow or liver function.
• Albumin and Total Protein: Low levels may indicate chronic liver disease.
• L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD): High LD levels can indicate liver damage, though it's not always a clear indicator.
• Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): Elevated levels can be interpreted as signs of liver damage.

How to Prepare for Liver Function Test?

If your doctor has ordered liver function test (LFT), it's important to prepare for them adequately:

1. Fasting: While not always required, some tests may benefit from fasting, so follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
2. Medication Review: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you're taking.
3. Alcohol Abstinence: Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test, as it can influence liver enzyme levels.
4. Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to facilitate blood collection and ensure accurate results.
5. Inform Your Doctor: Notify your healthcare provider of any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or recent illnesses.
6. Dress Comfortably: Wear clothing that allows quick access to veins for blood collection.
7. Relaxation: Minimize stress and anxiety, as they can temporarily affect certain blood parameters.
8. Follow Instructions: Adhere to any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Symptoms of Liver Disease

Liver Function Test may be ordered when signs and symptoms of liver disease or infection are present, such as:

• Appetite loss
• A bloated belly
• Belly pain, especially in the upper right quadrant
• Dark urine
• Jaundice
• Light-colored stool
• Nausea
• Pruritus (itching)
• Vomiting
• Weakness/fatigue

What are the Normal Test Results for LFT?

Normal results for liver function test (LFT) may vary, but they are generally within the reference range provided by the laboratory. Here are normal test levels among adult men:

ALT: 7 to 55 units per liter

AST: 8 to 48 units per liter

ALP: 40 to 129 units per liter

Albumin: 3.5 to 5.0 grams per deciliter

Total Protein: 6.3 to 7.9 grams per deciliter

Bilirubin: 0.1 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter

GGT: 8 to 61 units per liter

LD: 122 to 222 units per liter

It's crucial to note that being within the normal range doesn't guarantee optimal liver function, and vice versa. Interpret LFT results with other clinical information, including symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings.

Next Steps after Liver Function Test

After the LFT test, you can typically resume regular activities. If you experience dizziness or light-headedness during blood draw, take a moment to rest at the testing facility.

While the results may not pinpoint your specific condition or liver damage severity, they guide your doctor in deciding the next steps. Your doctor will convey results over a call or during a follow-up appointment.

In case of abnormal liver function, your doctor will scrutinize medications and medical history to determine the cause. If alcohol consumption is frequent, cessation is advised. Identifying medications causing elevated liver enzymes may lead to discontinuation as per your doctor's recommendation.

Conclusion

Liver function tests play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring liver health. If you are concerned about your liver function, talk to your doctor. They can order appropriate tests and assist you in interpreting the results. For an accurate and convenient LFT blood test, visit MyMeds247 website and book your liver function test. Our experience in medical diagnostics, combined with our low LFT test prices, adds to the convenience aspect. With our NABL certified labs, you can book a variety of tests in our web portal, including thyroid test, kidney function tests, blood sugar test and more.