Overview
For the purpose of evaluating Liver health and potentially diagnosing Liver disorders Liver function tests or LFTs are crucial. Through important measurements these tests offer vital insights into many facets of Liver function. Enzymes called S.G.O.T. (AST) and S.G.P.T. (ALT) are evaluated to assess inflammation and damage to Liver cells. Liver disease and bile duct function are indicated by elevated Alkaline Phosphatase levels. Total Bilirubin Direct Bilirubin and Indirect Bilirubin measure the livers functionality to process and eliminate Bilirubin a waste product generated from Red Blood Cells. The Liver plays a vital role in maintaining overall Protein balance and Protein synthesis. These Liver efficiencies are evaluated by measuring total Protein Albumin and Globulin. Evaluation of Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) is helpful in identifying bile duct problems and alcohol-related Liver damage while the A/G Ratio (Albumin/Globulin Ratio) aids in the detection of Liver conditions and diseases. It is essential to regularly monitor these parameters in order to identify and treat Liver health problems early on.
No special preparation is needed for this test. The Technician will draw Blood from your Arms Vein or Finger tip for sample collection. The following details will help you understand about the best LFT test in Jaipur.
What is the Liver Function Test (LFT)?
The Liver function test may be used to help diagnose liver disease if a person has signs and symptoms that indicate possible liver dysfunction. If a person has a known condition or liver disease, testing may be performed at intervals to monitor the health of the liver and to evaluate the effectiveness of any treatments. Abnormal tests on a liver panel may prompt a repeat analysis of one or more tests, or of the whole panel, to see if the elevations or decreases persist and may indicate the need for additional testing to determine the cause of the liver dysfunction.
What is the Purpose of the Liver Function Test (LFT) ?
The LFT test is advised for following analysis:
- Screening: LFTs can be used to detect liver issues before symptoms manifest. Regular screenings during check-ups help identify early signs of liver dysfunction or disease.
- Diagnosis: LFTs are crucial for diagnosing the cause of symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. They help confirm or rule out liver conditions and can be used alongside other tests for a comprehensive diagnosis.
- Monitoring: After the diagnosis of a liver disease, liver function tests (LFTs) are utilized to monitor the course of the disease and the efficacy of therapy over an extended period, ensuring appropriate management when required.
- Assessing the Effect of Medical Conditions and Treatments: LFTs help evaluate how different medical conditions and treatments, like chemotherapy or other medication, affect liver function in order to ensure the best possible liver care and overall treatment efficacy.
When is a Liver Function Test (LFT) Recommended?
If you have following symptoms, then LFT test is advised:
- Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Itching
- Dark urine
- Pale stool
- Unusual tiredness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Unusual bruising easily
Preparation for Liver Function Test (LFT)
- Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the LFT test.
- Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to a LFT test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
- Drink adequate water before sample collection.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
- Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.
Interpreting the Liver Function Test (LFT) Results
If your results are abnormal, you will likely be advised to go for further testing as a liver function test cannot firmly diagnose a particular condition. Your doctor can help you interpret your results. Normal values for the particular test are typically displayed along with your numbers. Following are the normal values of LFT parameters:
- Alanine transaminase (ALT): 0 to 45 IU/L
- Aspartate transaminase (AST): 0 to 35 IU/L
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): 30 to 120 IU/L
- Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT): 0 to 30 IU/L
- Bilirubin: 2 to 17 micromoles/L
- Prothrombin time (PT): 10.9 to 12.5 seconds
- Albumin: 40 to 60 g/L
- Total proteins: 3 to 8.0 g/dL
What is the Cost of Liver Function Test (LFT)?
The price of a liver function test is Rs. 600. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
- Other tests advised along with LFT test
- Offers or discounts
- Empanelment of the patient
Components of Liver Function Test (LFT)
- S.G.O.T. / AST: It helps to measure the levels of the aspartate aminotransferase. Aspartate aminotransferase is an enzyme that is found in the liver, heart, and muscles. Elevated levels of this enzyme indicate liver tissue damage, inflammation, or disease. This may also indicate diseases with other organs.
- S.G.P.T. / ALT: This test helps to measure the levels of alanine aminotransferase. Alanine aminotransferase is an enzyme that is majorly present in the liver. Since ALT is secreted into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged, elevated levels are indicative of inflammation or liver damage. Liver function evaluation and diagnosis greatly depends on the measurement of ALT.
- Alkaline Phosphatase: This enzyme is present in the liver tissues, bile ducts, and bones. Increased levels may be a sign of bone problems, bile duct blockage, or liver disease. It is critical for determining bile flow, liver health overall, and liver dysfunction diagnosis.
- Bilirubin Total: This test estimates the total amount of bilirubin in the blood, which includes conjugated and unconjugated forms of the bilirubin. Increased levels may be a sign of haemolysis, bile duct blockage, or liver dysfunction. It is essential for analyzing liver and gallbladder health and for diagnosing jaundice.
- Bilirubin Direct: This test helps in measuring the levels of conjugated bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a bile pigment processed by the liver and excreted into bile. Elevated levels of this pigment can indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, or conditions affecting bilirubin processing. It helps in diagnosis and monitoring liver diseases and jaundice.
- Indirect Bilirubin: It involves the measurement of the levels of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood. It is the form of bilirubin before it undergoes breakdown in the liver. Increased levels may be a sign of liver disease, excessive red blood cell destruction, or genetic disorders affecting the liver's ability to process bilirubin. It is crucial for identifying and analyzing the underlying causes of liver-related disorders and jaundice.
- Total Protein: It helps in evaluating the combined levels of all proteins in the blood (including albumin and globulin). Abnormal levels may be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, diseases of the liver or kidney, or other illnesses influencing the synthesis or loss of protein. It is essential for diagnosing different medical conditions and assessing general health.
- Albumin: This is a type of protein that is the marker for liver function. The reduced albumin levels may indicate sepsis, inflammatory disorders, and other liver problems.
- Globulin: This test is used to measure the levels of globulin proteins in the blood. It includes antibodies and enzymes that are essential for immune function and other processes in the body. Abnormal levels may indicate liver disease, kidney disorders, or immune system issues.
- A/G Ratio: The blood's albumin and globulin levels are compared using the A/G Ratio (Albumin/Globulin Ratio). A high A/G ratio may be a sign of autoimmune diseases, kidney problems, or liver disease. This ratio presents information on liver function and overall protein balance, which is beneficial in diagnosing and monitoring these health problems.
- Gamma Glutamyl Transferase: This test helps in measuring the level of the GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) enzyme in the blood. Elevated levels can indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or chronic alcohol abuse. It is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring liver conditions and assessing the impact of lifestyle factors on liver health.
How is the Liver Function Test (LFT) Test Done ?
The Blood Sample for LFT test is taken in following steps:
- The area where the needle will be inserted to take your blood is cleaned with an antiseptic alcohol wipe. The hollow on the inside side of the elbow or the tip of the finger are the most common sites for this.
- A tourniquet or a band is tied around your upper arm to facilitate the access to the vein in your arm.
- A needle is used to puncture your vein. The blood sample is collected into a test tube attached to the needle. The needle may cause a small pinch or sting when it is inserted.
- Once the vial or test tube is filled, the blood sample collection for the test is finished and the needle is taken out.
- Finger pressure is applied on the puncture site to stop the bleeding and the band aid is applied at the site.
How to Schedule A Liver Function Test (LFT) with Dr. B. Lal Lab ?
- Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
- Go to the “Book a test” tab.
- Select the “Lab Test” tab.
- Type “LFT test” in the search bar.
- Click on the test.
- The test page with all the test details will show up.
- Click on “Book Now”.
- Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
- Now enter your details.
- Select date & time for booking LFT test in Jaipur.
- Check out.