Bilirubin (Total): Bilirubin is a substance produced during normal breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin is of two types - direct and indirect. Elevated levels of direct bilirubin might indicate liver damage, obstruction, viral hepatitis, and/or other kinds of liver disorders. Increase in indirect bilirubin levels might be indicative of certain types of anaemia, which include hemolytic anaemia in which there is destruction of a large number of red blood cells, or maybe of no significance (physiological jaundice). Bilirubin is also commonly elevated in newborns and neonates.
Bilirubin (Direct): Direct bilirubin is excreted out of your body in the form of bile. Bile pigments give yellowish colour to your stool.
Bilirubin (Indirect): Indirect bilirubin is converted to direct bilirubin to facilitate its clearance from the body. Increase in indirect bilirubin may be caused due to hemolysis and certain congenital disorders.
S.G.O.T. (Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase):AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) also known as SGOT is an enzyme found in the liver that helps convert proteins into energy for liver cells. When the liver is damaged, SGOT is released into the bloodstream and the levels might increase. Mild elevations may sometimes be of no significance.
S.G.P.T (Serum Glutamic - Pyruvic Transaminase): ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) also known as SGPT is an enzyme that helps to metabolise amino acids. Like ALT, AST is normally present in blood at low levels. An increase in AST may indicate liver damage, disease or muscle damage. Mild elevations may sometimes be of no significance.
Alkaline phosphatase, Serum:This is an enzyme found in the liver and bones and is important for breaking down proteins. Higher than normal levels of ALP may indicate liver damage or disease like blocked bile duct or certain bone disease.
G.G.T.P. (Serum) (Gamma- glutamyltransferase):It is the average concentration of haemoglobin in your red blood cells.
Total Proteins, Serum: : It is the total amount of protein in your blood. A total protein test can give some general information on your health. Low protein levels can indicate liver or kidney disease.
Albumin, Serum: Albumin is one of the several proteins made in the liver Your body needs these proteins to fight infections and perform other functions. Lower than normal levels of albumins and total protein may indicate liver damage or disease. This is also frequently found in certain diets and also in prolonged fasting states. Low albumin levels can also be seen in certain kidney diseases.
Albumin/ Globulin Ratio, Serum: Albumin/Globulin ratio is the comparison of the amount of albumin in your blood serum with the amount of globulin in your blood serum.
To prevent liver disease
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests used to assess the overall health and function of the liver. These tests measure various enzymes, proteins, and other substances produced or processed by the liver, providing crucial insights into liver health and potential liver diseases. Liver Function Tests are critical in evaluating liver health, identifying liver disorders, and tracking the treatment efficacy of liver-related conditions.
LIVER FUNCTION TEST
Question:What does an LFT test for? Answer:It evaluates the health and functionality of the liver.
Question:How frequently should LFTs be done? Answer:As recommended by your healthcare provider, often in case of liver disease or damage risk.
Question:Is fasting required for LFT? Answer:this varies lab to lab . Please check with your healthcare provider.
Question:Can LFTs detect liver cancer? Answer:They can indicate abnormalities, but further tests such ans AFP, PIVKA II are needed for cancer diagnosis.
Question:Common symptoms indicating the need for an LFT? Answer:Jaundice, fatigue, dark urine, abdominal pain, other abdominal symptoms
Question:How long does it take to get LFT results? Answer:Usually within a day
Question:Can I interpret my LFT report myself? Answer:Basic understanding is possible, but a doctor’s interpretation is essential for accuracy.
Question:What indicates a healthy liver in LFT results? Answer:Normal ranges of enzymes and proteins, specific to each test component. Radiological examination if recommended by your doctor is essential for a conclusive diagnosis
Question:Can LFTs improve with lifestyle changes? Answer:Yes, through diet, exercise, and avoiding alcohol.
Question:What does a very high ALT level mean? Answer:Potential liver damage or inflammation.
Question:Can LFTs detect alcohol damage? Answer:Yes, particularly through GGT and AST levels.
Question:What does a high bilirubin level indicate? Answer:Possible liver or bile duct issues, like jaundice.
Question:Does medication affect LFT results? Answer:Yes, certain medications can impact liver enzyme levels.
Question:What are ALP levels important for? Answer: Indicating bile duct function and liver health.
Question:What can cause extremely elevated AST levels? Answer:Liver damage, heart attack, or muscle injury.
Question:How does hepatitis affect LFTs? Answer:Can significantly elevate liver enzyme levels.
Question:What does low albumin suggest? Answer:Potential chronic liver disease or malnutrition.
Question:How do gallstones affect LFTs? Answer:Can elevate bilirubin and ALP levels.
Question:Are there any risks with LFTs? Answer:Minimal, mainly discomfort at the blood draw site.
When discussing your Liver Function Test results with your doctor, consider asking: