Liver Function Tests Purpose, Types and Results Explained

1. Liver Function Tests: Purpose, Types & Results Explained ========================================================= Your liver happens to be one of the most hardworking organs. It plays a crucial role, it even takes on multiple roles such as aiding you to digest food, detoxifying your blood, and producing essential proteins. Indeed, the inability of the liver to work properly may cause such symptoms as fatigue and pain in the abdominals, and more severe problems like liver diseases. This is where Liver Tests (LFTs) can assist you, as they can provide useful information about the health of your liver and predict issues, at an early stage. In this blog, we will examine what LFTs are, how they are performed, and what they mean but first, we need to understand why LFTs are important to have regularly performed.

2. Understanding The Basics Of Liver Function Tests ( LFT) Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are some blood tests that assess the effectiveness of your liver to world its usual functions--including the production of proteins, waste procession, metabolization of nutrients, and dwellings. A LFT test may consist of: Enzymes These signify inflammation or damage to the liver when they are high. Proteins Assist in measuring synthesis liver in activity, e.g. albumin synthesis. Bilirubin One of the breakdown products of red blood cells. Increased results indicate biliary or hepatic problems. Prothrombin Time INR Reflects the capability of the liver to help in blood clotting. What is the importance of Liver Function Tests? Tests on the liver profile are not limited to individuals with liver disease. They are very essential in: Diagnostics of Liver Diseases Hepatitis, liver cancer, liver cirrhosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver and non- alcoholic fatty liver disease, among others. Surveillance of Chronic Hepatic diseases LFTs also assist in monitoring the improvement or deterioration of the disease in the patients that have already been diagnosed. Unusual Symptoms.

3. Fatigue, jaundice or pain in the abdomen, with no other cause? The answers can be given by LFTs. Medication Assessment More especially when you are under the drug that has the known effects on the liver. Routine Screening Individuals at risk, who engage in activities such as alcohol intake, viral hepatitis, or metabolic diseases. Overall Health Assessment LFTs provide an overview of the body in terms of internal health since the liver plays a significant role in numerous bodily activities. Types of Liver Function Tests? Xactvision has a full offering of LFTs for the components of liver function: 1. Alanine Transaminase (ALT) Test A test that is used for liver inflammation. If liver cells are damaged or dead, ALT can leak out into the blood stream. 2. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Test AST is considered a liver damage marker. Elevated AST is not specific to the liver: it may also reflect damage/inflammation in either the skeletal muscles or the heart. 3. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test The ALP gives a general idea; elevated ALP could be from obstructed bile ducts, liver inducement/inflammation, or high bone turnover. 4. Albumin & Bilirubin Test Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A low level of albumin is consistent with impaired liver function. Bilirubin is the breakdown product of hemoglobin. Bilirubin can accumulate and cause jaundice - a yellowing of skin and eyes (or neon light yellow urine).

4. 5. International Normalised Ratio (INR) The INR measures how long it takes blood to clot (prothrombin time). An abnormal INR may suggest liver disease, or deficiencies with clotting factor(s). 6. Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test The AFP test helps in the detection or monitoring of liver cancer; high AFP may also be related to chronic hepatitis. 7. Mitochondrial Antibodies Test The mitochondrial antibodies test can help with the assessment of autoimmune liver diseases, such as Primary biliary cholangitis. Important Ranges of LFT Tests you should know Test Normal Range ALT------------- AST------------- ALP------------- Albumin---------3.5–5.5 g/dL Bilirubin----------Up to 1.2 mg/dL INR-------------- 0.8 to 1.1 AFP--------------Less than 10 ng/mL (adults) Note: Normal values can vary slightly based on lab standards, age, and gender. Always consult your physician for a tailored interpretation. 7–56 U/L 10–40 U/L 44–147 U/L Liver Function Test Results- Explained Understanding your LFT ( liver function test) report can be confusing. Here's a simplified breakdown of what might be going on: Elevated ALT/AST: Liver cell damage or inflammation. High Bilirubin: Jaundice, bile duct obstruction, rapid breakdown of red blood cells.

5. Low Albumin: May be due to chronic liver disease or malnutrition. High ALP: May indicate an obstruction in the bile ducts, or bone disease. If INR is abnormal: May indicate the liver has decreased synthesis of clotting proteins. Elevated AFP: Usually a marker for screening or monitoring liver cancer. Positive Mitochondrial Antibodies: Potentially suggesting an autoimmune liver disease. How LFT Is Performed? Xactvision Diagnostics is dedicated to making their Liver Function Test (SFT) easy and patient-friendly, while maintaining comfort. Preparing for your LFT In most situations, your physician will request that you fast 8-12 hours prior to the test to assure successful results. This is particularly important for bilirubin and enzyme components of the test. Although food should not be ingested, you may drink water. It is important to inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any prescription medications. Some medications can affect the outcome of the tests. Sample Collection Once you check in at our diagnostic center, a trained phlebotomist will perform the procedure. A vein (typically found on the inside portion of your elbow) will be cleaned, and a small sterile needle will be used to extract your blood sample. The procedure is quick (only a few minutes) and the pain you experience will be minimal.

6. Lab Processing The sample is labeled and then sent to our skilled laboratory for processing. Your sample will be analysed with calibrated equipment, and staff will use their training to assure accuracy and dependability of results. Results & Consultation It can take a 24 to 48-hour period to have your test results. When it is done, our medical team will always be welcome to explain the results found and what the numbers mean regarding your health, and where to get yourself next: lifestyle changes, additional tests, or medicine. Throughout the stages XactVision ensures accuracy, speed and education of the patients- because we believe that they are the best people to take charge of their health. Conclusion Liver Function Tests are more than just diagnostic indicators; they also serve as an early warning system. Being able to identify liver issues before they become significant allows you to manage your health. XactVisionDiagnostics utilizes precision diagnostics and expert medical direction to help make sure that your liver is in healthy condition. Book your Liver Function Test in Gurugram with XactVision today and take your first step toward better health!