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  4. Liver Function Test (LFT): Interpreting Your Results

Liver Function Test (LFT): Interpreting Your Results

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What Does a Liver Function Test (LFT) Measure?

A Liver Function Test (LFT) measures the levels of various enzymes, proteins, and substances in the blood that indicate liver health. These include enzymes like alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which indicate liver damage, and bilirubin levels, which reflect liver function. Elevated levels can suggest liver inflammation, damage, or disease, while lower levels might indicate improved liver health or recovery. Understanding these results helps doctors diagnose liver conditions early and monitor treatment effectiveness.

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

  1. 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
  2. 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

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