Understanding Liver Function: Key Tests and Their Purpose

Liver function tests (LFTs) encompass a battery of liver assessments to quantify proteins, enzymes, and bilirubin levels within the bloodstream. These tests serve as diagnostic tools for identifying liver infections, diseases, or damage. 

The importance of the liver cannot be overstated. Its diverse and vital functions make it essential for overall health, influencing everything from digestion and metabolism to detoxification and immune function. 

Key Substances Analyzed in Liver Function Tests and Their Significance

Deviations, whether elevated or reduced, in the concentrations of these substances may indicate an underlying liver ailment. The substances analysed in LFTs are as follows:

• Gamma Glutamyltransferase (GGT): An enzyme present in the circulatory system.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): This is an enzyme present in the liver and bone.
• Aspartate Transaminase (AST): An enzyme present in both the liver and muscles.
• Alanine Transaminase (ALT): An enzyme predominantly present in the liver.
• Lactate Dehydrogenase: Another enzyme synthesised by the liver, ubiquitously distributed in the body’s cells.
• Albumin and Total Protein: Albumin is an essential protein facilitating immune defence and various bodily functions. Total protein testing evaluates the collective levels of albumin and other proteins in the blood.
• Bilirubin: A byproduct resulting from the breakdown of red blood cells.
• Prothrombin Time (PT): A test measuring the duration required for blood clotting.

At Cadabams Diagnostics, we are equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic laboratory services and infrastructure to deliver precise reports.

Importance of Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests are essential tools in the medical field for the early detection, diagnosis, and management of liver diseases. 

Purpose of Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of the following conditions:

1. Detection of liver infections, such as hepatitis.
2. Monitoring of medication side effects affecting liver function.
3. Evaluation of the severity of diseases like cirrhosis.
4. Assessment of the effectiveness of liver disease treatment.

Types of Liver Function Tests and Their Significance

Common liver function tests (LFTs) include:

• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): Indicates liver cell injury.
• Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): Reflects liver and muscle cell injury.
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): Elevated in bile duct obstruction or liver damage.
• Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT): Helps diagnose bile duct problems.
• Total and direct bilirubin: Indicates liver’s ability to process bilirubin.
• Albumin: Measures liver's synthetic function.
• Prothrombin time (PT): Assesses liver's ability to produce clotting factors.

Indications for Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests are recommended if an individual experiences symptoms associated with liver disease, including:

1. Jaundice
2. Fatigue
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Dark urine and pale stools
5. Abdominal pain
6. Diarrhoea
7. Pruritus (itching)
8. Abdominal swelling
9. Loss of appetite

Additionally, individuals with certain risk factors should undergo liver function tests.

These factors include:

• Suspected exposure to hepatitis viruses.
• Presence of alcohol use disorder (chronic alcohol addiction).
• Use of medications known to impact liver function and potentially cause damage.
• Family history of liver conditions.

Procedure for Liver Function Tests

Typically, a blood sample is obtained from a vein in the patient’s arm. Some bruising or soreness at the puncture site may occur. A tiny needle is inserted into the vein to collect a small amount of blood into a tube attached to the needle. 

Minimal temporary discomfort may be experienced during needle insertion and removal. The blood sample is subsequently delivered to a lab for evaluation. The procedure only takes a few minutes.

Interpretation of Liver Function Test Results

Liver function tests (LFTs) are blood tests used to assess the health of the liver. They measure levels of liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the blood. Here is a general interpretation of key components of LFTs, including the normal, low, and high ranges:

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

Normal Range: 7 to 56 units per litre (U/L)

Low ALT: Rarely of concern, usually due to normal biological variation.

High ALT: Indicates liver damage or inflammation, potentially from hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or medication effects.

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Normal Range: 10 to 40 U/L

Low AST: Rarely of concern, typically a normal variation.

High AST: Indicates liver damage, muscle injury, or heart damage.

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

Normal Range: 44 to 147 U/L

Low ALP: This may suggest malnutrition, zinc deficiency, or hypophosphatasia.

High ALP: Indicates liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or bone disorders.

Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)

Normal Range: 9 to 48 U/L

Low GGT: Usually not significant.

High GGT: Suggests liver disease, bile duct problems, or excessive alcohol consumption.

Total Bilirubin

Normal Range: 0.1 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)

Low Bilirubin: Not usually a concern.

High Bilirubin: Indicates liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, or hemolytic anaemia.

Albumin

Normal Range: 3.5 to 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL)

Low Albumin: Suggests liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition.

High Albumin: Rarely of concern, usually due to dehydration.

Total Protein

Normal Range: 6.3 to 7.9 g/dL

Low Total Protein: Indicates liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, or malabsorption.

High Total Protein: This may suggest chronic inflammation or infections.

Methodology Steps for Liver Function Assessments

Some of the important methodology steps for liver assessment include:

Blood Sample Collection

• A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.
• Patients may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test.
• Avoiding alcohol and certain medications before the test may be necessary.

Laboratory Analysis

• Blood samples are analysed in a lab.
• LFT Results are usually available within a few days, depending on the lab centre.

Interpretation of Results

• Healthcare providers assess the results based on standard reference ranges.
• If any abnormalities are found, additional testing or follow-up may be required.

Diagnosis and Next Steps of Liver Function Tests

LFT results alone do not provide a definitive diagnosis, but they guide further action. If liver dysfunction is indicated, your doctor will review your medical history and medications to identify the cause. 

Additional tests may include evaluating for liver infections or diseases through imaging tests like 

• Viral Hepatitis Panel: Checks for hepatitis A, B, or C infections.
• Ethanol Test: Used when alcohol-related liver damage is suspected.
• Ceruloplasmin Test: Assesses for Wilson’s disease, a disorder related to copper accumulation.
• Imaging Tests (Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI): Helps detect structural abnormalities in the liver.
• Liver Biopsy: Used to diagnose conditions such as cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or fibrosis.

Why Choose Cadabam’s Diagnostics for Liver Function Assessments

At Cadabams Diagnostics, the focus is on providing comprehensive healthcare solutions that emphasise the importance of liver health through preventive measures, timely diagnostics, and personalised treatment plans. 

We offer various diagnostic tests, including laboratory investigations, radiology services, and imaging studies in Banashankari, Bangalore. By integrating expert medical advice, cutting-edge technology, and a patient-centred approach.

With a focus on physiotherapy and allied treatment options, Cadabams Diagnostics has been a clear leader among Diagnostic centres in Bangalore and surrounding areas. Cadabams ensures that individuals receive the support they need to manage their liver health effectively. Contact us for more information!

You can contact us for a Liver Function Test in Bangalore by visiting our official website at info@cadabamsdiagnostics.com

FAQs

1. What is the importance of liver function assessments?

Liver function assessments are critical for diagnosing and monitoring liver diseases, evaluating the severity of liver damage, guiding treatment decisions, and assessing the liver's capacity to metabolise drugs and detoxifHow long will my physiotherapy sessions take at your clinic in Kalyan Nagar, Bangalore?

The length of your physiotherapy session at our clinic in Kalyan Nagar, Bangalore typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of treatment. Your physiotherapist will discuss your sessions' expected duration and frequency during the initial assessment.

These tests can detect conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer early, which can significantly improve patient outcomes.

2. How should one prepare for a liver function test?

Preparation for a liver function test may include:

Fasting for 8-12 hours before the test to ensure accurate results. 

1. Avoiding alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
2. Informing your doctor about all your medications and supplements, as some can affect test results.
3. Following any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

3. What do abnormal liver function test results indicate?

Abnormal liver function test results can indicate:

1. Elevated ALT and AST: Liver cell damage or inflammation, possibly from hepatitis, fatty liver, or drug toxicity.
2. High ALP and GGT: Bile duct obstruction or cholestasis.
3. Increased Bilirubin: Liver's inability to process bilirubin, seen in conditions like hepatitis or Gilbert's syndrome.
4. Low Albumin and Prolonged PT: Chronic liver disease affecting liver's synthetic function, like cirrhosis.

4. Can liver function tests diagnose specific liver diseases?

Liver function tests alone cannot diagnose specific liver diseases. They indicate liver damage or dysfunction, prompting further investigations like imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI) and more specific tests (viral hepatitis markers, autoimmune liver disease tests, liver biopsy) to determine the exact cause.