Liver function tests (LFTs) are blood tests that measure various substances like enzymes, proteins, and substances produced by your liver. These measurements assess your liver health.
What does the liver do?
The liver is a vital organ located in the upper right area of the abdomen, just below the diaphragm. It plays a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances from the blood, metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and producing bile to aid in fat digestion. Additionally, it synthesizes important proteins, stores vitamins and minerals, supports immune function, and regulates various hormones. Overall, the liver is essential in maintaining metabolic balance, detoxifying the body, and supporting digestion and immune function.
What are the symptoms of liver issues?
The common symptoms of liver issues include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes, which can be harder to notice on darker skin)
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Itchy skin
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Persistent fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Easy bruising
What are the causes of liver issues?
Liver disease can have many different causes, including:
- Viral infections (e.g., hepatitis B, C)
- Alcohol-induced hepatitis
- Toxic hepatitis (e.g., chemicals, drugs)
- Non-alcohol-related fatty liver disease
- Biliary stasis (e.g., biliary atresia, cystic fibrosis)
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., autoimmune hepatitis)
- Inherited metabolic disorders (e.g., Wilson disease, hemochromatosis)
- Cardiovascular diseases (e.g., Budd-Chiari syndrome, heart failure)
What is the importance of liver function tests?
Liver function tests are crucial for several reasons. They help in the early detection of liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis, by measuring levels of enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the blood. These tests also monitor the progression of existing liver conditions and the effectiveness of treatments. Additionally, liver function tests can identify potential side effects of medications that may impact liver health. By providing essential information about liver performance, these tests enable healthcare providers to make informed decisions, ensuring timely intervention and effective management of liver-related issues.
What are the types of liver function tests?
To diagnose liver diseases, several tests are commonly used. Here are some of the main tests included in liver function tests:
- Liver Enzymes Test
- Total Protein Test
- Bilirubin Test
- LDH Test
- Prothrombin Time (PT) Test
Test available at Dr Lal PathLabs
1. AST (SGOT)
2. ALT (SGPT)
3. GGTP
4. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
5. AST: ALT Ratio
6. Bilirubin Direct
7. Bilirubin Indirect
8. Bilirubin Total
9. A: G Ratio
10. Albumin
11. Total Protein
How to interpret liver function test results?
The reference intervals for the various liver function tests are as follows:
| Test | Normal Range |
| AST (SGOT) | 15.00 – 40.00 U/L |
| ALT (SGPT) | 10.00 – 49.00 U/L |
| AST:ALT Ratio | <1.00 |
| GGTP | 0 – 73 U/L |
| Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) | 30.00 – 120.00 U/L |
| Bilirubin Total | 0.30 – 1.20 mg/dL |
| Bilirubin Direct | <0.3 mg/dL |
| Bilirubin Indirect | <1.10 mg/dL |
| Total Protein | 5.70 – 8.20 g/dL |
| Albumin | 3.20 – 4.80 g/dL |
| A: G Ratio | 0.90 – 2.00 |
Conclusion
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are important for checking how well your liver is working and spotting problems early. These tests help doctors find conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver, or cirrhosis. Understanding your LFT results is essential for managing liver health. Early detection can lead to better treatment and prevent further damage. If you’re concerned about your liver or your doctor recommends these tests, LFTs can give clear insights and help guide treatment. Always talk to your doctor to understand your results and keep your liver healthy.
Also Read: Bad blood sugar in human body? Part 1
