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Liver Function Test

Liver Function Test

Liver function tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests used to evaluate the health and functionality of the liver. These tests help diagnose liver diseases, monitor the progression of liver conditions, and assess the effectiveness of treatments.


  1. Purpose:
    • Assess Liver Health: Evaluate the liver's ability to perform its vital functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion.
    • Diagnose Liver Diseases: Detect conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease.
    • Monitor Liver Conditions: Track the progression of liver diseases and the effectiveness of treatments.
  2. Common Tests:
    • Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT):
      • Purpose: Measures the level of ALT, an enzyme found primarily in the liver.
      • Interpretation: Elevated ALT levels indicate liver damage or inflammation.
    • Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST):
      • Purpose: Measures the level of AST, an enzyme found in the liver and other organs.
      • Interpretation: High AST levels suggest liver damage but can also indicate damage to other organs.
    • Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):
      • Purpose: Measures the level of ALP, an enzyme related to the bile ducts.
      • Interpretation: Elevated ALP levels can indicate bile duct obstruction or liver disease.
    • Total Bilirubin:
      • Purpose: Measures the level of bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown.
      • Interpretation: High bilirubin levels can indicate liver dysfunction or bile duct problems, leading to jaundice.
    • Albumin and Total Protein:
      • Purpose: Measures the levels of proteins produced by the liver.
      • Interpretation: Low levels can indicate liver dysfunction or other health issues.
    • Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT):
      • Purpose: Measures the level of GGT, an enzyme involved in bile production.
      • Interpretation: Elevated GGT levels can indicate liver or bile duct issues, often used to detect alcohol abuse.
  3. Procedure:
    • Blood Sample: A blood sample is taken from a vein, typically in the arm, and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
  4. Significance:
    • Early Detection: Identifies liver issues early, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment.
    • Disease Monitoring: Essential for tracking the progression of liver diseases and adjusting treatments as needed.
    • Guiding Treatment: Helps determine the cause of liver symptoms and guide appropriate treatment plans.

Importance of Renal Function Tests:
  • Preventing Complications: Early detection and management of liver conditions can prevent severe complications like liver failure.
  • Overall Health Assessment: Provides valuable insights into overall health, as liver function affects many bodily systems.

Liver function tests are essential diagnostic tools in assessing liver health, enabling early detection, effective management, and monitoring of liver-related conditions.