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The liver is super importantu2014it helps with food processing, stores energy, and clears out toxins. If it starts acting up, it's a big deal.
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LIVER FUNCTION TEST: PURPOSE, TYPES, AND PREPARATION WWW.MAXLAB.CO.IN
The liver is super important—it helps with food processing, stores energy, and clears out toxins. If it starts acting up, it's a big deal. Doctors use liver function tests (LFTs) to check how well the liver is doing. These tests look at blood samples to see levels of different proteins and enzymes in the liver. They help figure out if the liver is doing its job right.
PURPOSE OF LIVER FUNCTION TEST Liver function tests (LFTs) are like liver detectives —they help figure out how well the liver is doing and catch any problems. Affordable in price, liver test are important for checking conditions such as hepatitis (both viral and alcoholic), liver cirrhosis, and side effects from certain medications. Using blood samples, LFTs look at different proteins and enzymes to see if the liver is working as it should. They're not just for spotting issues but also to keep tabs on how well treatment is going for specific liver conditions.
TYPES OF LIVER FUNCTION TESTS Different liver function tests examine different aspects of liver health: Bilirubin: Checks for jaundice; elevated levels may indicate issues with red blood cell breakdown. ALT (Alanine transaminase): Breaks down dietary protein; high levels signal potential liver damage. AST (Aspartate transaminase): Similar to ALT, aids in amino acid breakdown; found in the bloodstream. ALP (Alkaline phosphatase): A liver enzyme involved in protein breakdown; also present in bones. Albumin and total protein: Low levels suggest liver damage; albumin protects against infections.
PREPARATIONS BEFORE LIVER FUNCTION TESTS If your doctor asks for liver function tests (LFTs), here's how to get ready: Drink lots of fluids before the test. It makes it easier for the person taking your blood to do their job. Skip alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test. It can mess with your test results. Talk to your doctor about any medicines you're on. Some can affect the test so your doctor might need to adjust the dosages. You'll probably need to fast for 8–12 hours before the test. Fasting helps make sure the test results are spot on. Check-in with your doctor about your liver function if you're worried—those tests are key for keeping tabs on your liver's well-being.