Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Understanding Your Results & Liver Health
Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Understanding Your Results & Liver Health
Your liver is a powerhouse, handling detoxification, metabolism, and much more. Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a simple blood test that reveals how well your liver is working. This guide will demystify LFTs, explain normal ranges (India & US), explore genetic testing, and provide tips for liver health.
What Are Liver Function Tests (LFTs)?
LFTs measure "liver workers" – enzymes, proteins, and other substances. When your liver is healthy, these workers function smoothly. If your liver is damaged, some workers leak into your blood, or their levels change. Here‘s a layperson‘s breakdown:
- ALT (Alanine transaminase): A "liver worker" in liver cells. High levels mean cell damage.
- AST (Aspartate transaminase): A worker in the liver, heart, and muscles. High levels suggest damage in these areas.
- ALP (Alkaline phosphatase): A worker in the liver, bile ducts, and bones. High levels may indicate blockage or bone issues.
- Bilirubin: A yellow waste product. High levels cause jaundice (yellow skin/eyes).
- Albumin: A protein made by the liver. Low levels suggest liver dysfunction.
- GGT (Gamma-glutamyl transferase): A worker in the liver and bile ducts. High levels indicate damage.
- PT (Prothrombin Time): Measures blood clotting time. Liver problems can slow clotting.
Why Are LFTs Important?
LFTs help:
- Detect liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver).
- Monitor disease progression.
- Assess treatment effectiveness.
- Evaluate medication-related liver damage.
Recommended Values: India vs. US
Normal ranges vary slightly between labs. Always refer to your lab‘s specific range. General guidelines:
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ALT (U/L): 7-56
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AST (U/L): 10-40
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ALP (U/L): 40-129
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Bilirubin (mg/dL): 0.1-1.2
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Albumin (g/dL): 3.5-5.0
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GGT (U/L): 8-61
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Important: While minor differences exist between India and US labs, interpretation principles are the same. Consult your doctor.
Understanding Your Results
- High enzyme levels suggest liver damage.
- Abnormal bilirubin indicates liver/bile duct problems.
- Low albumin suggests chronic liver disease.
- Your doctor interprets results with your history.
The Role of Genetic Testing in Abnormal LFTs
Genetic testing helps identify causes of abnormal LFTs:
- Hereditary Liver Diseases: Hemochromatosis, Wilson‘s disease, alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency.
- Genetic Predisposition: Risk for NAFLD.
- Metabolic Disorders: Glycogen storage diseases.
- Drug Metabolism: Identifying those at risk of drug induced liver damage.
When to Consider Genetic Testing:
- Persistent abnormal LFTs without a clear cause.
- Family history of liver disease.
- Suspected genetic disorder.
- Doctor‘s recommendation.
Key Takeaways:
- LFTs are vital for liver health.
- Consult your doctor for result interpretation.
- Genetic testing can identify underlying causes.
- Early detection is key.
Call to Action:
- Schedule an LFT consultation.
- Learn more about liver health.
- Share this information.
