Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests that help evaluate the liver’s health and functionality. They measure various enzymes, proteins, and waste products produced or processed by the liver, providing important information about liver cell integrity, bile duct function, and protein synthesis.
These tests are essential for detecting liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver, and liver damage due to drugs, alcohol, or infections.
What is LFTs?
We work to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of cancer care. All patients receive care guided by best practice standards of Cardio Care. These practices have been shown to provide the best patient outcomes. Patients and their families can quickly access a diverse range of cancer care services, including these facilities:
Function: Enzyme found mainly in the liver; helps convert proteins into energy for liver cells.
Normal Range: 7 – 56 U/L
High ALT: Indicates liver cell injury (e.g., hepatitis, drug toxicity).
Low ALT: Usually not significant but may occur in poor liver function.
Types of Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
Tests for Hepatocellular
These tests assess damage or inflammation of liver cells (hepatocytes).
a. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)
Found mainly in the liver.
Increased levels indicate direct liver cell damage (e.g., hepatitis, liver toxicity).
b. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
Found in liver, heart, and muscles.
High AST along with ALT suggests hepatocellular injury or liver inflammation.
AST/ALT ratio helps identify the cause:
>2 → Alcoholic liver disease
<1 → Viral hepatitis
Tests for Cholestasis (Bile Flow Obstruction)
These tests measure enzymes that increase when bile flow is blocked within the liver or bile ducts.
a. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
Present in bile ducts and bones.
High ALP → Obstruction of bile flow (gallstones, tumors).
b. Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
Present in liver and bile ducts.
High GGT + High ALP → Confirms biliary or alcohol-related liver disease.
Nucleotidase (5′-NT) (less commonly used)
Helps differentiate liver origin of elevated ALP.
Purpose: Diagnose bile duct obstruction, cholestasis, or alcohol-related damage.
Serum Albumin
Protein made by the liver.
Low albumin → Seen in chronic liver disease, malnutrition, or nephrotic syndrome.
Exam Duration
40 Minutes - 50 Minutes
LFTs Pricing
Private LFTs scans are provided on a per fee basis and are not covered by health care.
