Understanding Your LFT Results
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are essential in assessing liver health and detecting conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis. Here's what some key markers measure:
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT):
- Normal Range: 7–56 units per liter.
- High ALT: Indicates liver damage or inflammation, such as from viral hepatitis, alcohol, or fatty liver disease.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST):
- Normal Range: 10–40 units per liter.
- High AST: Elevated levels may indicate liver injury or damage to muscles and other organs.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):
- Normal Range: 44–147 units per liter.
- High ALP: Can suggest bile duct problems, liver damage, or bone disorders.
- Bilirubin:
- Normal Range: 0.1–1.2 mg/dL.
- High Bilirubin: Often indicates issues with liver function or bile flow, potentially leading to jaundice.
- Albumin:
- Normal Range: 3.5–5.0 g/dL.
- Low Albumin: May indicate chronic liver disease or poor nutrition, as albumin is produced by the liver.
- Why LFTs Matter:
- Abnormal results may indicate acute liver damage, chronic liver disease, or blockages in bile flow. Early detection of abnormal liver function helps prevent complications, guide treatment, and monitor disease progression.
Recommended Tests
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) Blood Test
The ALT test is a key marker of liver inflammation and damage. Elevated ALT levels are commonly associated with conditions like fatty liver disease or hepatitis.
ALT Blood Test - Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Test
GGT is often measured alongside ALT and ALP to assess bile duct health and detect liver damage, particularly related to alcohol consumption.
GGT Blood Test
