The LFTs (Liver Function Tests) are a series of blood tests used to evaluate the health and function of the liver by measuring the levels of enzymes, proteins, and substances related to liver activity. These tests include ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) and AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), which are liver enzymes that increase with cellular damage; ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase), which is related to the bile ducts or bones; bilirubin, a yellow substance that causes jaundice in liver disorders or bile duct obstruction; as well as albumin and total protein, which indicate the liver’s ability to synthesize proteins.
LFTs are used to diagnose liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver, bile duct obstruction, or to assess drug-induced liver damage (e.g., due to acetaminophen overdose) and alcohol use. Abnormal levels may indicate inflammation, cellular damage, impaired bile excretion, or decreased synthetic function of the liver.
Interpretation of results should be done in conjunction with clinical symptoms (such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain), medical history, and other tests (such as imaging or liver biopsy). Elevated AST/ALT is often associated with hepatitis, while increased ALP and bilirubin may suggest bile duct obstruction.
Normal results do not necessarily guarantee a completely healthy liver, as some damage may occur without changes in enzyme levels.
