Liver Function Test (LFT)

An LFT profile is performed to check the functions and overall health of the liver. The test may be prescribed by a doctor to:

• Determine the damage caused to the liver because of heavy alcohol use or by a liver disorder like hepatitis B or C.
• Monitor the efficacy of a liver disease treatment plan.
• Monitor the side effects of certain medications.
• Diagnose the symptoms of liver disease.

The LFT profile may also be prescribed as a part of a regular full body health check-up or if a person has high risk factors for developing liver diseases, like family history, excessive alcohol consumption, a history of IV drug use, or being overweight or obese.

Preparations required for the liver function test (LFT) may vary from case to case, so it is important to consult a doctor before getting the test performed. It is also important to inform the doctor about any medication the person is taking. Certain medications and diets can impact the levels of enzymes and proteins in the blood. A doctor will be able to provide precise instructions about the preparations for the liver function test (LFT) and if one needs to refrain from some medication or food before the test.

The liver function test is a blood test that measures the levels of several enzymes and proteins present in the blood to determine liver health and function. The normal ranges vary for the different enzymes and proteins being measured and abnormal levels, whether higher or lower than normal, may indicate different types of conditions or disorders. There are also certain medications, dietary habits, and health conditions that can affect the enzyme levels of the blood, apart from factors like age, lifestyle, genetic history, etc., which must also be taken into consideration while interpreting the results of the liver function blood test. That is why it is crucial to consult a doctor with the reports of the test so they can perform a proper diagnosis and suggest further tests if required.

In a pregnancy, an LFT test can prove to be crucial in ensuring the mother’s and child’s good health. The changes the body goes through during gestation may at times lead to the development of liver disorders or the pregnancy may cause the underlying chronic liver disease to flare up, which makes it important to monitor liver health in pregnancy with an LFT test being performed at regular intervals. Early detection of liver-related diseases is key for successful treatment and for better outcomes for the mother as well as the child.

The occurrence of symptoms of poor liver function is one of the most common reasons why liver function blood tests are prescribed. These symptoms may include:

• Yellow tinge in the eyes or skin
• Swelling and pain in the abdomen
• Swollen ankles and legs
• Itchy skin
• Dark-coloured skin
• Pale stool
• Nausea or vomiting
• Chronic fatigue
• Bruising easily and frequently
• Lack of appetite
• Diarrhea

If the symptoms are present for an extended period of time, one should consult their doctor immediately.

After the liver function test results have been generated, one should consult their doctor with the reports. The doctor will be able to interpret the results properly, keeping the individual’s health and other affecting factors in mind for a proper diagnosis in case of an abnormal result. Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor will then be able to prescribe further tests, if required, or they will devise a treatment plan to be followed from thereon.

There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing liver disease, leading to the need to undergo a screening test for liver disease on a more frequent basis to keep track of the condition of one’s liver. Some of these factors include:

• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity or being overweight
• Having type 2 diabetes
• Having tattoos or body piercings
• Sharing needles for IV drug use
• Unhealthy lifestyle habits, like lack of regular exercise, a diet high in saturated fats, etc.
• Cholesterol issues
• Personal or family history of liver problems
• Consumption of certain prescription drugs

People with high risk factors for liver diseases should consult their doctor, who can assess their condition and suggest how frequently they should undergo a screening test for liver disease.

Genetic disorders are hereditary, they can be passed from a parent to a child and can also lead to the development of certain liver diseases, like haemochromatosis, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, or Wilson’s Syndrome. That is why a family history of liver diseases is one of the major factors that increase the risk of one developing liver conditions.

The price of the Liver Function Test may differ from city to city. Below are our cities of service with the Liver Function Test price near you: