Liver Function Test (LFT)
Comprehensive liver function analysis
₹1470.01₹1200.01
The Liver Function Test (LFT), also known as the Liver Panel, is a group of blood tests that assess the health and function of the liver. These tests measure the levels of certain enzymes and proteins in the blood that are produced by the liver or are released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged.
Key Components of the LFT
The LFT generally includes several markers, which fall into two main categories: markers of Liver Cell Damage (Enzymes) and markers of Liver Function (Proteins/Bilirubin).
1. Markers of Liver Cell Damage (Hepatocellular Injury)
These enzymes are usually contained within the liver cells (hepatocytes). When the liver is injured or inflamed, these enzymes leak into the bloodstream, indicating damage.
Test | Full Name | Indication of High Level |
AST | Aspartate Aminotransferase | Liver cell injury; also found in heart and muscle. |
ALT | Alanine Aminotransferase | More specific indicator of liver cell injury/inflammation. |
Note: High levels of both AST and ALT often point to conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or alcohol-related damage.
2. Markers of Bile Duct/Flow Problems (Cholestasis)
These markers relate to the system that processes and transports bile, which can be blocked by certain liver diseases or gallbladder issues.
Test | Full Name | Indication of High Level |
ALP | Alkaline Phosphatase | Bile duct obstruction (blockage of bile flow) or bone disorders. |
3. Markers of Liver Function
These proteins and waste products directly reflect how well the liver is performing its essential metabolic tasks.
Test | Component | Indication of Abnormal Level |
Bilirubin | Total, Direct, & Indirect | The liver processes bilirubin (a breakdown product of red blood cells). High levels cause jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes) and indicate the liver isn't clearing waste properly or bile ducts are blocked. |
Albumin | Albumin | A protein made by the liver. Low levels indicate severe or chronic liver damage, as the liver can't produce enough protein. |
Total Protein | Albumin and Globulins | Measures all proteins in the blood. |
Why the LFT is Performed
LFTs are ordered for various reasons, including:
Screening: As part of a routine health check-up.
Diagnosis: To investigate symptoms like jaundice, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
Monitoring: To track the progression of known liver diseases (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis) or to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
Drug Safety: To monitor potential liver damage from medications known to be hepatotoxic (harmful to the liver)
1) Bilirubin (Total, Direct, Indirect)
2) SGPT
3) SGOT
4) ALP.