Liver Function Test

Liver function tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests that provide information about the health and function of the liver. These tests are often ordered by healthcare professionals to assess the liver’s ability to perform various vital functions. Liver function tests typically include several individual tests, each measuring different aspects of liver function. Here are some common components of liver function tests:

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT):

Function: ALT is an enzyme present in liver cells. Elevated levels in the blood may indicate liver damage or disease, particularly in conditions such as hepatitis.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST):

Function: AST is another enzyme found in the liver, as well as in other organs like the heart and muscles. Elevated levels may indicate liver damage but can also be associated with heart or muscle conditions.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):

Function: ALP is an enzyme found in the liver, bile ducts, and bones. Elevated levels may suggest liver or bone disease, or obstruction of the bile ducts.
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT):

Function: GGT is an enzyme found in the liver and bile ducts. Elevated levels can be associated with liver disease, alcohol use, or certain medications.
Total Bilirubin:

Function: Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Elevated levels may indicate liver disease or problems with bile flow.
Albumin:

Function: Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. It helps maintain blood volume and pressure. Low levels may suggest liver disease or malnutrition.
Total Protein:

Function: Total protein measures the total amount of proteins in the blood, including albumin and other proteins. Changes in total protein levels can indicate liver or kidney disease.
Prothrombin Time (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR):

Function: These tests assess the blood’s ability to clot. The liver produces clotting factors, and abnormalities in PT and INR can indicate liver dysfunction.
Abnormal results in liver function tests may indicate various liver conditions, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or liver tumors. However, abnormal results do not provide a specific diagnosis and further evaluation may be needed.