The liver constitutes one of the most important organs in the human body, carrying out several functions that are essential to its health. The liver aids in the filtration of toxins from the bloodstream, boosts digestion, produces blood-clot proteins, and governs several organs, including the heart and kidneys. Hence, health in the liver is directly correlated to health per se. However, liver-related diseases and conditions are commonly undetectable at first instance due to less obvious symptoms. This is where the Liver Function Test (LFT) comes in.
What is a Liver Function Test (LFT)?
Liver Function Test is a blood test,” that usually includes a battery of tests that assess the health and efficiency of your own liver. They measure the amounts of many different enzymes, proteins, and other substances in your blood, which help determine whether your liver is functioning properly and whether in fact some other issues may underlie it. Liver function tests are vital in diagnosis of liver diseases, monitoring an ongoing condition, and assessing the effectiveness of treatment.
An LFT test typically measures the following key parameters:
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): This enzyme is involved in the elimination of surplus nitrogen from the body by the liver. ALT levels in blood increase when there is damage to the liver owing to a hepatitis infection or any other liver-related disease.
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): Like ALT, another liver enzyme has been found in the heart and muscles: AST. Increased levels of AST, aside from indicating liver damage or inflammation, are revealed in heart attack or muscle injury conditions.
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): Enzyme discovered in the liver, bones, kidneys and bile ducts. ALP may be elevated in cases of liver diseases, obstructions of bile ducts, or bone disorders.
- Total Bilirubin: Yellow pigment from the degradation of red blood cells. A large quantity of bilirubin in the bloodstream leads to jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin and eyes. High bilirubin may indicate liver dysfunction or obstruction in the bile duct.
- Albumin: It is produced by the liver and plays a significant role in maintaining body fluid balance. Decreased albumin concentration can indicate liver disease, malnutrition, and kidney problems.
- Total Protein: The total protein test measures the amount of protein present within the body including albumin, which helps determine whether the liver is functioning well in terms of production of important proteins needed for the body the liver because of its inability to produce adequate proteins.
- Gamma -glutamyl transferase: This enzyme is helpful in protein breakdown. In addition, it shows the activity level of clinical liver functions. Also assessed with increased levels of GGT, liver conditions involve the biliary tract and chronic alcohol drunkenness.
Why Are Liver Function Tests Important?
Liver function tests are essential for detecting liver disease early before symptoms become severe. Many liver diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease, can develop without noticeable symptoms. If left untreated, these conditions can cause long-term damage to the liver, leading to complications such as liver failure.
Regular monitoring of liver health through an LFT test helps identify potential liver problems at an early stage, making it easier to intervene and manage the condition. If you’re at higher risk for liver disease, regular testing is essential. Risk factors include:
- Heavy alcohol consumption: Chronic alcohol use can lead to alcoholic liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- Obesity: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is more common in people who are overweight or obese.
- Viral infections: Hepatitis B and C can cause long-term liver damage and are often asymptomatic in the early stages.
- Family history of liver disease: A genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of liver problems.
- Certain medications: Some drugs, particularly those used for cancer treatment or long-term pain relief, can negatively affect liver health.
LFT Test Price in Delhi: Affordable Health Checkups
Essentially, the Liver Function Test price in Delhi differs from lab to lab and test to test. Besides, Qris Health gives the benefit of making a home visit because you may collect a sample without you having to leave your house. In addition, it makes retrieving test results easy – all in the name of making it easier for individuals to monitor their liver health as well as share results with their doctor.
What Does an LFT Test Include?
A typical Liver Function Test includes the following parameters:
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): A critical enzyme in assessing liver damage.
- AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): Helps detect liver inflammation.
- ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase): Indicates bile duct or liver issues.
- Total Bilirubin: Measures liver’s ability to process red blood cells.
- Albumin: A protein indicating the liver’s ability to produce essential proteins.
- Total Protein: A broader test of liver function.
- GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase): A marker for liver disease or bile duct problems.
If needed, the test may also include additional scans like an ultrasound or imaging tests to evaluate liver size and structure.
When Should You Get an LFT Test?
While liver function tests are recommended for individuals at higher risk of liver disease, even those without symptoms should consider getting tested regularly. It’s especially important to monitor your liver health if you fall into one of the following categories:
- You consume alcohol regularly: Chronic alcohol use can significantly damage the liver.
- You have a family history of liver disease: Genetic factors can increase the risk of developing liver problems.
- You have high cholesterol or diabetes: These conditions can increase the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
- You experience symptoms like jaundice, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue: These can be signs of liver dysfunction.
- You are overweight or obese: Excess fat in the liver can lead to fatty liver disease.
Conclusion
A Liver Function Test (LFT) is a vital tool for assessing liver health and diagnosing potential liver issues. Whether you’re at risk due to lifestyle factors or simply want to monitor your liver function, regular testing can help catch problems early and ensure you receive timely treatment. The LFT test price in Delhi is accessible, with affordable packages starting at ₹649, making it easier for individuals to take control of their liver health.
With services like Qris Health, you can conveniently access LFT tests with the added convenience of home sample collection and online results. Regular liver function testing is an important step in maintaining long-term health, so don’t delay—get tested today!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are Liver Function Tests done?
Liver Function Tests are done to assess how well the liver is working and to detect any potential liver damage or disease. These tests help diagnose liver conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
2. What is a liver ultrasound?
A liver ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of the liver. It is often used alongside blood tests like the LFT to evaluate the liver’s size, shape, and structure.
