By analyzing the amounts of proteins and enzymes in your blood (also known as liver chemistries), liver function tests can help doctors evaluate whether you have a healthy liver.
They can also assess the progression or therapy of an illness that has already been diagnosed.
Increased or decreased levels of certain enzymes and proteins, according to the test, may suggest liver disease.
A Liver Function Test is used to test for disorders like hepatitis, tracking the side effects of the medicines, and determining the degree of liver disease are all possible reasons for performing a liver function test.
What is an LFT Test?
An LFT test, or liver function test, is a group of blood tests that assess the health of your liver. The liver is a vital organ that helps to filter toxins from your blood, produce bile, and store nutrients.
The most common LFT tests measure the levels of enzymes and proteins in your blood. These enzymes are released into the blood when liver cells are damaged. The proteins are made by the liver and help to keep your blood healthy.
The results of an LFT test can help your doctor diagnose liver damage or disease. They can also help your doctor monitor the progress of a liver disease.
Normal Level of LFT Tests Considered as:
- ALT: 7-56 units/liter
- AST: 10-40 units/liter
- ALP: 40-120 units/liter
- Total bilirubin: 0.1-1.2 mg/dL
- Direct bilirubin: 0-0.3 mg/dL
- Indirect bilirubin: 0.1-1.0 mg/dL
- Albumin: 3.5-5.0 g/dL
Why it’s done
Uses for an LFT test include:
● Screening for Hepatitis and other liver infections
● Observe the course of an illness, such as alcoholic or viral hepatitis, and assess how effective a treatment is
● Check for disease progression, especially liver scarring (cirrhosis)
● Keep track of any pharmaceutical adverse effects
Some proteins and enzymes in your blood can be measured by doing a liver function test. A liver condition might be indicated by abnormally high or low levels. The following are some of the most common liver tests:
Alanine transaminase: ALT assists liver cells in the process of turning protein into cellular energy via protein oxidation. Liver injury releases ALT into the bloodstream, which raises the level in the bloodstream
Aspartate transaminase: The enzyme AST aids in the breakdown of amino acids. AST, like ALT, is present in the blood at low concentrations. When AST levels rise, it could be a sign of liver illness, muscle injury, or all three.
Alkaline phosphatase: Breaking down proteins requires the enzyme ALP, which can be found in both the liver and bone. ALP levels that are higher than usual may suggest liver injury or diseases, such as certain bone diseases or a blocked bile duct.
Total protein and albumin: The liver produces many different proteins, one of which is albumin. These proteins are required by your body to fight infection and carry out a variety of other tasks.
The presence of abnormally low levels of albumin or total protein in the blood can point to liver injury or disease.
Bilirubin: The regular disintegration of RBC results in the production of bilirubin. The liver processes bilirubin, which is then expelled into the bowels. Increased bilirubin levels (jaundice) may be a sign of liver disease or injury, as well as some types of anemia.
Gamma-glutamyltransferase: GGT is a blood enzyme. Increased levels may be an indication of injury to the liver or bile ducts.
L-lactate dehydrogenase: The liver produces an enzyme called LD. Elevated levels may suggest liver damage, however, this is not always the case.
Prothrombin time: The time it takes for your blood to coagulate is referred to as PT. A high PT may be a sign of liver damage, but it can also happen if you’re using blood thinners like warfarin.
How Much Does LFT Test Cost in India?
According to the reputation of the facility, an LFT test price can vary greatly. The cost of the LFT test also varies from city to city. Large metropolitan cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Mumbai tend to have higher prices. Costs typically fall between Rs. 500 and Rs. 900.
The patient, on the other hand, must keep in mind that price is not the sole consideration. Quality is just as crucial as quantity when it comes to healthcare. As a result, patients should research the lab’s reputation and certification before undergoing any testing.
In India, NABL is one of the most sought-after certifications. Only after a thorough assessment by the laboratory is it issued. For example, results may fluctuate slightly depending on gender and age in different labs.
Using these data, your doctor will be able to diagnose your disease or determine what kind of treatment you require. It is possible to use liver function tests to see how your condition is progressing and whether or not the medication is working.
