Liver Function Test (LFT) |#MTP|

Liver Function tests are group of tests ordered to understand how well the Liver is performing

Liver Function Test-3, also known as a Liver Screen, is a group of tests that are performed together to evaluate the health of the liver. These tests typically measure the levels of certain enzymes and proteins in the blood that are associated with liver function.

These tests can be used to detect liver damage, inflammation, or infection, monitor the progression of liver disease, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

Associated Tests:

L0079     Liver Function Test-1 (Maxi)

L0080     Liver Function Test-2 (Mini)

Reasons for Undergoing the Liver Function Test

The liver function test, also known as the LFT test or LFT blood test, is a vital diagnostic tool for assessing liver health and function. It provides important information about liver enzymes, proteins, and overall organ performance. Understanding liver health is crucial, as the liver plays a key role in metabolism, detoxification, and various bodily functions.

There are several reasons to undergo a liver function test:

• Screening for Liver Diseases: This includes conditions like hepatitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
• Monitoring Medication Side Effects: The liver function test or LFT test helps assess the impact of medications that may impact the liver, such as NSAIDs and statins.
• Assessing Liver Damage: The LFT test is important for individuals at higher risk, such as those with alcohol use disorder, obesity, or diabetes.
• Monitoring Treatment Progress: The liver function test or LFT test, evaluates the effectiveness of treatments for known liver conditions.
• Identifying Underlying Conditions: The LFT test helps detect conditions that may affect the liver, such as autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, or genetic disorders like Wilson's disease and hemochromatosis.

Investigating Symptoms: The liver function test helps diagnose symptoms related to liver issues, such as nausea, fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain. Early detection is essential for effective management.

List of Parameters Considered During the Liver Function Test

The liver function test, or the LFT test, measures several key parameters to evaluate the health and functioning of the liver.

These parameters include:

• Alanine Transaminase (ALT) Test: ALT is an enzyme primarily located in the liver. Elevated ALT levels indicate liver damage, which can occur in conditions such as hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or liver injury caused due to medications or toxins.
• Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Test: AST is another enzyme found in the liver and, to a lesser extent, in muscles. High AST levels can indicate liver damage but may be elevated due to muscle injury.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test: ALP is an enzyme found in the liver, bile ducts, and bones. Elevated ALP levels can indicate liver or bile duct damage, as well as bone diseases.
• Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT) Test: GGT is an enzyme found in the liver and bile ducts. High GGT levels often indicate liver or bile duct damage and can be used to differentiate between liver and bone as the source of elevated ALP.
• Bilirubin Test: Bilirubin is a waste product formed during the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver removes bilirubin from the blood. High bilirubin levels can cause jaundice and may indicate liver dysfunction or a blockage in the bile ducts.
• Albumin and Total Protein Test: Albumin and total protein are proteins produced by the liver. Low levels of albumin or total protein indicate liver damage or disease, as the liver's ability to produce these proteins is compromised.
• Prothrombin Time (PT) or International Normalised Ratio (INR) Test: Prothrombin Time measures the time taken for the blood clotting process, while INR offers a standardized interpretation of this measurement. These tests further assess the liver's ability to produce clotting factors. A prolonged PT or elevated INR may indicate liver damage that affects blood coagulation.