What is the liver's main function test?

The liver's main function test, the Liver Function Test (LFT), assesses its health and functionality by measuring liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels in the blood.

What is the normal LFT level?

Normal LFT levels typically range within specific limits, with values such as ALT (Alanine aminotransferase) between 7 to 56 units/L and AST (Aspartate aminotransferase) between 10 to 40 units/L. However, these can vary slightly depending on the laboratory standards.

What happens if liver function test is high?

If liver function tests are high, it may indicate liver inflammation, damage, or disease, prompting further investigation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

What AST and ALT levels indicate liver disease?

Elevated AST and ALT levels can indicate liver disease; generally, levels more than twice the upper limit of normal are suggestive of liver damage or inflammation, particularly in conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease.

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Liver Function Test: An Overview

Verified by: Dr. Shreyas Cadabam

The Liver Function Test (LFT) is a specific test to determine the health and overall condition of the liver. This procedure, also known as liver chemistries, examines the level of liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the blood.

Doctors may have to rely on this test to track the progress of an existing disease’s treatment. Based on liver chemistries, a higher or lower level of one or more of these enzymes or proteins may indicate a liver problem.

Book your Liver Function test in Bangalore at Cadabams Diagnostics now!

What is a Liver Function Blood Test?

A liver function blood test is a common diagnostic tool used to assess the health and functionality of your liver.

Different Types of Liver Function Tests

LFT blood test are used in a variety of liver tests. Some common tests that are frequently administered include:

Alanine Transaminase (ALT) Test: ALT is an enzyme found primarily in your liver. It aids in the digestion of proteins. High levels of ALT in the blood may indicate liver damage.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test: ALP is an enzyme found in your liver, bile ducts, and bone. ALP levels above normal indicate liver damage, a blocked bile duct, or bone disease.
Albumin and Total Protein Test: Your liver produces two major enzymes, albumin and globulin. Low levels of these enzymes could indicate liver damage.
Aspartate Transaminase (AST) Test: Your liver also produces AST. A damaged liver may be indicated by high AST values.
Bilirubin Test: When RBCs are broken down, bilirubin is produced by the body. Your liver naturally removes bilirubin from your body. High levels of bilirubin in the blood indicate jaundice or liver injury.
Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT) Test: Elevated levels of the GGT enzyme indicate liver or bile duct injury.
L- Lactate Dehydrogenase (LD) Test: Although other disorders may cause its development, high levels of LD may also signify a sick liver.
Prothrombin Time (PT) Test: This test gauges the time it takes to form a blood clot. Clotting time increases damage risk.

What Information Can You Obtain from a Liver Panel?

A liver panel, or lft blood test, provides a range of information crucial for assessing the health and functionality of the liver. Here's the type of information that can be obtained from a liver panel:

Enzyme Levels: The levels of enzymes such as Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) indicate liver cell damage. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) levels help assess bile duct function.
Liver Function: The levels of total proteins and albumin give insights into the liver’s ability to synthesise proteins, which is a critical function of a healthy liver.
Liver Damage and Disease: High levels of bilirubin, which is a product of haemoglobin breakdown, can indicate liver dysfunction or diseases such as jaundice, bile duct blockage, or liver injury.
Biliary Tract Health: Elevated levels of ALP and GGT can suggest problems in the biliary tract, such as blockages, gallstones, or inflammation.

When Should You Consider a Liver Function Test?

Your liver performs all the vital tasks required for your well-being. Among other essential duties, it aids in the digestion of the meal, blood purification, energy storage, and the production of proteins and enzymes.

LFT blood tests evaluate how well your liver is working and aid in diagnosing problems like cirrhosis and liver diseases like hepatitis. An LFT may detect enzyme or protein levels above or below the normal range, which may indicate a liver problem.

If you have any of the below-mentioned signs, you may be advised to have a liver function test done:

Dark coloured urine
Yellowish eye or skin
Lack of appetite
Abdominal pain
Diarrhoea
Weakness or feeling fatigued
Nausea and vomiting
Swelling of belly

The doctor can also use the results of a liver test to determine if an illness is worsening or how effectively a given treatment is working.

How to Get the Best Price for LFTs?

To secure the best price for Liver Function Tests (LFTs), consider the following strategies:

Compare Prices: Research and compare prices from different diagnostic centres and hospitals in your area. Prices can vary significantly, so it's worthwhile to shop around.
Ask About Insurance: Check with your insurance provider to understand what your plan covers. Some plans may cover diagnostic tests completely or require a copay.
Seek Out Community Health Clinics: These clinics often offer medical tests at reduced rates or even for free, depending on your income level and insurance status.
Look for Packages or Memberships: Some health facilities offer packages or membership plans that include a bundle of services at a discounted rate. This can be cost-effective if you need multiple tests or regular health check-ups.
Check for Promotions or Discounts: Some labs and clinics have promotional rates during certain times of the year or for first-time visitors. It's worth asking about any current promotions.

By considering these options, you can reduce the financial burden of getting Liver Function Tests and ensure you're getting the best possible price.

Conclusion

Depending on your health and symptoms, your doctor might advise getting your liver examined using this test. The liver is among the most significant internal organs. Thus, you shouldn’t ignore it. Your top focus should be getting examined and treated effectively.

At Cadabams, we provide various Liver Function Test packages, which include total protein, bilirubin, albumin, globulin, SGOT, SGPT, alkaline phosphatase, and GGT. Visit the Best Pathology Lab in Bangalore today to get the best deals on packages.

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Why Choose Cadabams for Your Liver Function Test

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