Liver Function Test (LFT): What It Is and Why It’s Done
Liver function tests (LFTs) are essential blood tests that assess your liver's health and function. An LFT test measures enzymes, proteins, and substances produced or processed by the liver. It includes tests like the SGPT test, SGOT test, and bilirubin. Understanding an LFT test price and how to interpret results can help you take charge of your health.
What Does a Liver Function Test Measure?
An LFT test typically measures the following:
- Enzymes: ALT (SGPT test), AST (SGOT test), ALP, GGT
- Proteins: Albumin, total protein
- Bilirubin: Total and direct/indirect forms
Elevated ALT levels (detected by the SGPT test) suggest liver cell damage, while high AST (measured by the SGOT test) can indicate liver or muscle injury. Increased ALP and GGT may point to bile duct problems, while abnormal bilirubin levels can signify liver dysfunction or haemolysis.
When Is a Liver Function Test Recommended?
Your doctor may order an LFT test if you have:
- Symptoms of liver disease (jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain)
- A chronic liver condition that requires monitoring
- Exposure to hepatitis viruses or other risk factors
- Concerns about medication side effects on the liver
Regular screening with tests like the SGPT test and SGOT test can help detect liver problems early, when treatment is most effective.
Preparing for Your Liver Function Test
To ensure accurate results, follow these steps before your liver function test:
- Fast for 8-12 hours if required (especially for bilirubin and GGT)
- Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you take
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing
The test itself is a simple blood draw that takes just a few minutes. Results are typically available within 1-2 days.
Interpreting Liver Function Test Results
Your healthcare provider will review your LFT test results and look for patterns:
- Hepatocellular injury: Marked elevations in ALT (SGPT test) and AST (SGOT test)
- Cholestasis: Disproportionate increases in ALP and GGT
- Isolated bilirubin elevation: May indicate hemolysis or Gilbert's syndrome
Keep in mind that liver function tests alone cannot diagnose specific diseases. Additional testing (imaging, biopsy) may be needed. Also, normal results do not always rule out liver problems.
Follow-Up for Abnormal Liver Function Tests
If your LFT test results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend:
- Imaging tests (ultrasound, CT, MRI) to assess liver structure
- Viral hepatitis testing to check for underlying infections
- Liver biopsy to evaluate fibrosis or inflammation
- Repeat testing every 3-6 months to monitor chronic conditions
Your healthcare team will work with you to develop a personalised plan based on your specific results and risk factors.
Conclusion
A liver function test is a valuable tool for assessing liver health. By measuring key enzymes like ALT (SGPT test) and AST (SGOT test), proteins, and bilirubin, this blood test can help detect liver damage or dysfunction. If you have concerns about the LFT test price, SGPT test price, and SGOT test price, speak to your healthcare provider today. With early detection and proper management, many liver problems can be effectively treated.