Liver function tests (LFTs) are critical blood tests that assess liver health by measuring various enzymes and proteins, indicating potential liver damage or dysfunction. Common causes for abnormal LFT results include fatty liver disease, liver inflammation, bile duct blockage, and medication effects, while interpretation requires understanding of reference ranges and patterns for specific conditions. Regular monitoring is essential for those at risk, and comprehensive care services are available at institutions like Healix hospitals to support liver health and disease management.

1. Reading And Interpreting Your Liver
Function Test - A Guide To
Commonly Used Liver Tests
The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous metabolic functions in
the body, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and bile production.
Monitoring liver health is crucial for early detection and management of
liver diseases. One of the primary tools for assessing liver function is the
Liver Function Test (LFT). In this guide, we will delve into the commonly
used liver tests, how to interpret the results, and what they indicate about
your liver health.
Understanding Liver Function Tests
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests that provide
valuable insights into the health and function of the liver. These tests

2. measure various enzymes, proteins, and substances in the blood that are
indicative of liver health.
Key components of Liver Function Tests
 Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): Elevated levels suggest liver
damage, commonly caused by conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver
disease.
 Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Similar to ALT, elevated AST
levels indicate liver damage but may also be elevated in conditions
affecting the heart or muscles.
 Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Elevated ALP levels may suggest liver
or bone disease.
 Total Bilirubin: Increased levels may indicate liver dysfunction or
obstruction of bile ducts.
 Albumin and Total Protein: These are measures of liver synthetic
function; decreased levels may suggest liver disease.
What are the causes of abnormal liver function test results?
Causes of abnormal liver function test results can vary and may indicate
different underlying conditions. Some common causes include:

3. 1. Build-up of Fat in the Liver:
* Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can lead to abnormal liver
function tests, especially in overweight or obese individuals.
2. Liver Inflammation and Damage:
* Infections, toxic substances like alcohol or certain medications, and
immune conditions can cause liver inflammation and subsequent abnormal
test results.
3. Liver Overworking:
* When the liver is under stress from processing medicines or toxic
substances like alcohol or paracetamol, it can result in abnormal liver
function tests.
4. Bile Duct Blockage:
* Blockages in the bile ducts, such as by gallstones, can lead to abnormal
liver function test results.
5. Liver Conditions and Diseases:
* Underlying conditions like Wilson's disease, haemochromatosis, or
Gilbert's syndrome can affect liver function and result in abnormal test
values.
6. Liver Injury:
* Physical injury to the liver, trauma, or presence of abscesses
or tumors within the liver can cause abnormal liver function tests.
7. Medications and Supplements:
* Certain medications, over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, and
traditional medicines can also impact liver function test results.

4. 8. Other Factors:
* Factors like high alcohol intake, viral infections, autoimmune conditions,
metabolic liver diseases, heart problems, and tumors in the liver can
contribute to abnormal liver function tests.
Interpreting Liver Function Test Results
Interpreting LFT results involves understanding the reference ranges for
each component and recognizing patterns of abnormalities that may
indicate specific liver conditions.
Interpretation of Liver Function Test Results
Test Normal Range Elevated Levels Indicate
ALT 7-56 U/L Liver damage
AST 5-40 U/L
Liver damage, heart or muscle
conditions
ALP 44-147 U/L Liver or bone disease
Total Bilirubin 0.1-1.2 mg/dL
Liver dysfunction, bile duct
obstruction

5. Albumin 3.5-5.0 g/dL Liver synthetic function
Total Protein 6.0-8.3 g/dL Liver synthetic function
Common Liver Conditions and LFT Pattern
Different liver conditions exhibit characteristic patterns of abnormalities in
LFT results. Understanding these patterns can aid in diagnosing and
managing liver diseases effectively.
Common Liver Conditions and Associated LFT Patterns:
 Hepatitis: Elevated ALT and AST levels, with or without elevated
bilirubin.
 Liver Cirrhosis: Decreased albumin and total protein levels, along
with elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase.
 Fatty Liver Disease: Elevated ALT and AST levels, often with normal
ALP and bilirubin levels.
 Biliary Obstruction: Elevated ALP and bilirubin levels, with or
without elevated AST.
Regular monitoring of liver function through LFTs is essential for individuals
at risk of liver disease, such as those with a history of alcohol abuse,
obesity, viral hepatitis, or family history of liver disease. However, LFT
results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and
other diagnostic tests for accurate diagnosis and management.
What are the long-term effects of liver disease?
The long-term effects of liver disease can be severe and may include:
1. Cirrhosis:
* Cirrhosis is a common long-term consequence of liver disease where scar
tissue replaces healthy liver tissue, leading to liver dysfunction and
potentially liver failure. Causes of cirrhosis include hepatitis, alcohol abuse,

6. nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune disorders, blocked bile ducts,
certain medications, toxic chemical exposure, heart failure, and inherited
diseases like hemochromatosis or Wilson disease.
2. Liver Failure:
* As liver disease progresses, it can result in liver failure where the liver
stops functioning properly. Liver failure can have serious implications for
overall health and may necessitate a liver transplant for survival.
3. Portal Hypertension:
* Liver disease can lead to portal hypertension, a condition where
increased pressure in the portal vein causes complications like enlarged
blood vessels in the stomach (portal gastropathy), varices that can rupture
and cause severe bleeding, and ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen).
4. Kidney Disease:
* Liver disease can also impact kidney function, leading to kidney
disease or even kidney failure as a complication of advanced liver
conditions like cirrhosis.

7. 5. Coagulation Disorders:
* Liver disease can affect the production of proteins necessary for blood
clotting, resulting in easy bruising and severe bleeding tendencies.
6. Type 2 Diabetes:
* Cirrhosis can lead to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism,
contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes as a long-term effect of
liver disease.
7. Liver Cancer:
* Chronic liver disease increases the risk of developing liver cancer over
time. Conditions like cirrhosis and chronic viral hepatitis are significant risk
factors for the development of liver cancer.
Healix Hospitals Offerings
When it comes to liver health and management of liver diseases, Healix
Hospitals provide comprehensive services and state-of-the-art facilities.
Here are some offerings specific to liver care:
 Liver Function Testing: Healix Hospitals offer advanced liver
function testing to accurately assess liver health and diagnose liver
diseases.
 Hepatology Department: With a dedicated hepatology department,
Healix Hospitals provide specialized care for liver diseases, including
hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
 Liver Transplantation: For patients with end-stage liver disease,
Healix Hospitals offer liver transplantation services, including pre-
transplant evaluation, surgery, and post-transplant care.
 Nutritional Counseling: Healix Hospitals provide personalized
nutritional counseling for patients with liver disease to optimize their
diet and manage their condition effectively.
With a multidisciplinary approach and a team of experienced hepatologists,
surgeons, and nurses, Healix Hospitals ensure the highest quality of care

8. for patients with liver diseases, promoting better outcomes and improved
quality of life.
Conclusion
Understanding the basics of liver function tests and how to interpret their
results can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards liver
health. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended for
proper evaluation and management based on LFT findings.
Remember, a healthy liver is vital for overall well-being, so prioritize liver
health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of harmful
substances. Your liver will thank you for it!