Book Liver Function (LFT) Test

TEST DESCRIPTION

Liver function tests are a set of blood tests that play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring liver diseases or damage. These tests analyse the levels of specific enzymes and proteins in the bloodstream. The tests provide valuable information about the liver's ability to carry out its essential functions. Abnormal results do not always indicate liver disease.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of liver disease may not always be apparent, but when they do occur, they may include:

The yellowish appearance of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

Abdominal pain and swelling

Swelling in the legs and ankles

Itchy skin

Dark-coloured urine

Pale stool colour

Chronic fatigue

Nausea or vomiting

Loss of appetite

Easy bruising tendency

STEPS TO FOLLOW BEFORE TESTS

Generally, you don’t need to do anything special prior to your test. You can eat and drink normally unless your healthcare provider tells you.

NORMAL RANGES

^*Reference range may vary depending on the equipment used by labs. Consult your referring doctor for proper interpretation of test results

SOME SAFETY ADVICE TO FOLLOW

Follow the Doctor's Advice: Stick to the instructions and recommendations provided by your doctor based on the liver function test results.

Watch for Symptoms: Pay attention to any unusual signs or changes in your body and promptly inform your doctor about any concerns.

Take Medications as Directed: Follow the prescribed dosage and duration for any medications or treatments suggested based on the test results.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, limit alcohol intake, stay physically active, and maintain a healthy weight to support liver health.

Avoid Harmful Substances: Minimize exposure to harmful chemicals, certain medications, alcohol, drugs, and toxins in the environment.

Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water daily to maintain proper hydration and support liver function.

Get Hepatitis Vaccinations: Consider getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B as recommended by your doctor.

Practice Safe Sex and Good Hygiene: Use protection during sexual activity and practice good hygiene habits to reduce the risk of hepatitis transmission.

Schedule Regular Check-ups: Make sure to attend follow-up appointments to monitor your liver function and discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Get Professional Guidance: Consult your doctor for personalized advice and clarification regarding liver function test results and safety measures.

SOME USEFUL INFORMATION

Five Most Primary Liver Function Tests

Liver enzymes test: This test measures the levels of enzymes such as ALP, ALT, AST, and GGT, which can indicate liver injury when elevated.

Total protein test: It measures the protein levels in your blood, as the liver produces proteins. Low protein levels may suggest suboptimal liver function.

Bilirubin test: This test measures the levels of bilirubin, a waste product deposited in bile by the liver.

LDH test: LDH is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver. This test helps assess liver function.

Prothrombin Time (PT) test: It measures the time taken for your blood to clot, which involves proteins produced by the liver.

These tests are part of a comprehensive metabolic panel, a routine blood test panel.

What kind of thing can the Liver panel tell you?

A liver panel is a blood test that can provide important information about the health of your liver. 

If you have liver inflammation, which could be caused by hepatitis.

Whether the inflammation is related to alcohol consumption or non-alcoholic factors, like metabolic issues.

If you have a problem in your liver itself or in your bile ducts.

Whether your liver function is impaired, and if so, to what extent.

If your bile flow is impaired, and if so, to what extent.

Whether your medications are affecting your liver, and if so, to what extent.

ALIASES (Other names that describe the test. Synonyms.)

LFTs

Liver Function Panel

Liver Function Tests

ORDERING RECOMMENDATION

The Liver Function Test is recommended for assessing the health of your liver and its enzymatic activities. It's particularly useful for detecting liver conditions, evaluating liver function, and monitoring any ongoing liver-related issues. This test is often ordered to assess liver health in individuals with potential liver diseases, certain medications, or alcohol use. While the test provides important insights, it's important to note that further clinical evaluation may be required for a comprehensive assessment of liver health.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

[QUESTION] What is a liver function test? 

[ANSWER] It's a blood test that assesses liver health and function.

[QUESTION] Why does the Doctor suggest the LFT Test?