Liver function test (LFT) help to identify liver disease, its severity, and its type. Generally these tests are performed in combination, are abnormal in liver disease, and the pattern of abnormality is indicative of the nature of liver disease. Liver function test (LFT) is done to screen for liver damage. LFT may be used to help diagnose liver disease if a person has signs and symptoms of liver dysfunction. This test also helps to monitor the status of the liver and helps to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. LFT includes Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), Bilirubin, Albumin, Total protein, Globulin and albumin-globulin ratio (A/G ratio). Albumin Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and comprises of 60% of total protein in the blood. Albumin levels are decreased in liver diseases. There are many other conditions like infection, inflammation, malnutrition, recent surgery, hypothyroidism, kidney disease etc, where the albumin levels are reduced. Total Protein Proteins are an essential part of the tissues and cells in the body. This test measures the total amount of all proteins (including albumin and globulins) in the blood. Protein measurements reflect the nutritional status, liver and kidney functioning. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) ALT is an enzyme found in the cells of the liver. Increased levels of ALT are typically seen when the liver is damaged. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) AST is an enzyme primarily found in the cells of the liver. Increased levels of AST are seen when the liver is damaged. Elevated AST levels is not specific to liver pathology. AST testing can be done to monitor treatment for liver diseases or when a person has symptoms suggestive of a liver disorder. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) GGT is an enzyme found in the liver cells. It is useful in liver diseases like cholestasis, alcoholism associated liver damage, recovery in acute hepatitis etc. Total Bilirubin Blood Test Bilirubin is a waste product from the breakdown of old red blood cells which is processed by the liver for removal from the body. Direct Bilirubin Blood Test Direct Bilirubin is also known as Conjugated Bilirubin in the blood. Direct Bilirubin is the water soluble form which is passed out of the liver. Elevated levels of direct bilirubin are often indicative of conditions such as viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, Biliary Disease and related conditions such as gallstones, tumors or scarring of the bile ducts. Total and direct bilirubin tests helps to distinguish between different types of liver diseases.
