What is a Liver Function Test?
A liver function test (LFT) is a group of blood tests to diagnose liver and biliary tract diseases.
These tests include :
- Prothrombin time (PT/INR)
- Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT)
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
- Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)
- Alanine transaminase (ALT) test
- L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD)
- Total protein
- Albumin
- Bilirubin (direct and indirect)
Other names : Liver panel, liver function panel, liver profile hepatic function panel, LFT.
| Test Type | Blood Test |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Fasting is required (not eat or drink) for 10-12 hours before the LFT test. |
| Report | 24 to 36 hours |
| Liver Function Test (LFT) Cost | Rs.350 to Rs.1500 approximately. |
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Get A Second OpinionNormal liver function test Values:
| Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) | 8 to 48 U/L |
| Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) | 40 to 129 U/L |
| Albumin | 3.5 to 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL) |
| Total protein | 6.3 to 7.9 g/dL |
| Bilirubin | 0.1 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) |
| Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) | 8 to 61 U/L |
| L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD) | 122 to 222 U/L |
| Prothrombin time (PT/INR) | 9.4 to 12.5 seconds. |
| Alanine transaminase (ALT) test | 7 to 55 units per liter (U/L) |
For any abnormal findings, you must consult a doctor.
How to Prepare for a Liver Function Test?
Ensure to inform your physician about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Your doctor may advise you to refrain from eating the night before the liver function test.
What Happens During a Liver Function Test?
The physician will utilize a slender needle to extract a small blood sample, typically from the area near your elbow. You may experience a slight pinch or stinging sensation as the needle is inserted.
If there is liver damage, these tests may need to be repeated multiple times within a span of a few days or weeks. This will allow the doctor to monitor any changes in levels and confirm your condition.
If you undergo testing at a clinic with an on-site laboratory, you can expect to receive results within a few hours. Otherwise, it may take a few days to receive the results.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
- Hepatologist
- Liver specialist
- Gastroenterologist
- Liver infection - Hepatitis A, B, C
- Autoimmune liver diseases
- Genetic liver diseases
- Cancer
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Fatty liver
- Certain drugs
Yes, fasting for 10-12 hours is required for LFT.
No risks are involved in LFT. Rarely, bruising or slight pain at the injection site is observed.
The cost of a liver function test in Hyderabad is Rs.350 to Rs.1500 approximately.
Yes, it is good for liver function.
Yes, its antioxidant properties protect the liver from being damaged.
LFT is done by collecting a blood sample from a vein in the arm and sending it to a laboratory for further testing.
