The liver is a vital organ located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, beneath the diaphragm. It aids in digestion, metabolism, and elimination of toxins from the body. The liver is also involved in glucose synthesis and storage and regulation of red blood cells. Liver Function tests (LFTs), also known as liver panel test, are blood tests that assess liver function by measuring the levels of various substances produced by the liver. These include proteins, enzymes, and metabolic byproducts.
Getting an LFT test in Bangalore can help screen for various liver diseases. It can be done to check if the presenting symptoms are due to liver disease or damage. If liver disease is diagnosed, LFTs help to determine the severity of the disease. The test is useful for routine monitoring of existing liver disease and the response to ongoing treatment. LFTs are also performed to monitor the side effects of some medications known to affect the liver. LFT values can determine the presence of hepatitis (liver inflammation) and check whether it is related to alcohol intake or other causes (such as metabolic), impairment in liver function, or flow of bile (greenish-yellow fluid secreted by the liver), the site of damage (the liver itself or the bile ducts) and its extent.
The Liver Function test measures a range of parameters, as listed below:
Bilirubin : Bilirubin is a yellow pigment in the bile produced from the breakdown of dead red blood cells. Its levels can fluctuate in liver disease. The bilirubin test measures the following parameters:
Total bilirubin
Indirect bilirubin
Direct bilirubin
Indirect bilirubin is the water-insoluble bilirubin that enters the liver. The liver converts this to water-soluble direct bilirubin, which is moved out to the intestine for excretion. Total bilirubin comprises both direct and indirect bilirubin.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT/SGPT) : ALT is an enzyme found in muscles, heart, and kidneys but is mainly seen in the liver. High ALT levels may be a sign of liver inflammation, injury, or disease.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST/SGOT) : AST is also an enzyme associated with liver health. Increased AST levels may be a sign of liver damage, cirrhosis (liver scarring), or advanced liver disease.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) : ALP is an enzyme found in organs such as the liver, bones, intestines, and kidneys. ALP assesses many medical conditions, including liver problems.
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) : GGT is an enzyme found in the liver and bile ducts as well as other body tissues. High GGT levels may indicate liver or bile duct damage.
AST/ALT Ratio : The SGOT/SGPT ratio, or AST/ALT ratio, is often more informative than individual enzyme values in diagnosing liver disease.
Total Protein : The total protein test estimates the blood levels of two major proteins made by the liver, albumin and globulin. Fluctuations in protein levels may signify liver, kidney, or gastric problems.
A/G Ratio : Albumin is the major protein synthesized by the liver and helps transport substances like medicines and hormones throughout the body. Globulin helps transport nutrients and fight infections. The A/G ratio helps in diagnosing liver and kidney disease, and nutritional problems, as well as certain cancers, genetic disorders, and immune diseases.
Before undergoing Liver Function test in Bangalore, it is important to bear in mind the following factors:
Prerequisites: The LFTs do not require any major preparation. Usually, the test does not involve any fasting. However, you may be advised by your doctor to fast for 10 to 12 hours before taking the test. Ask your healthcare provider if you must avoid any foods or medicines that may interfere with your test results.
The best time to get tested: The LFT test can be taken at any time during the day.
Eligibility for the LFT test: Individuals who may be eligible for an LFT test include those with symptoms of liver damage or disease. Those without symptoms but at high risk for liver damage due to factors such as obesity, diabetes, hepatitis from injury or infection, alcohol use, or a family history of liver disease, should also get tested. For individuals with liver disease, LFTs are done to monitor the condition and response to ongoing treatment.
Cautions before taking the LFT test: Before getting an LFT test at home, you are required to inform your doctor about any existing illnesses or medicines you may be taking that can affect your liver enzymes and protein levels.
The LFT test provides valuable insights into liver function and overall health. Here are some reasons why you might need an LFT test:
Routine Checkups: Your healthcare provider may include LFTs as part of your routine checkup. This screening helps to detect early signs of liver disease or dysfunction, allowing for prompt intervention and management.
Symptoms of Liver Issues: Experiencing symptoms like nausea, lack of appetite, fatigue, or jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) could indicate liver problems. Other signs include abdominal swelling or pain, swelling in the legs, dark urine and/or light-coloured stool, or persistent itching. These symptoms necessitate LFTs to evaluate liver health and identify potential issues.
High-Risk Factors: Certain factors increase your risk of liver damage, warranting regular testing even in the absence of symptoms. If you have a family history of liver disease, face challenges with alcohol use disorder (AUD), are obese, diabetic, or take medications known to affect liver function, you may need regular monitoring with LFTs. Additionally, individuals with hepatitis or a history of hepatitis from infection or injury require diligent screening due to the heightened risk of liver inflammation and damage.
For those already diagnosed with liver disease, regular testing becomes essential for monitoring the progress of the condition and assessing the effectiveness of treatment. Whether managing hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or other liver disorders, routine testing helps healthcare providers adjust treatment plans to optimize liver health.
Thus, LFTs enable early diagnosis, monitoring, and management of liver diseases.
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