Liver Function Test (LFT Blood Test)

The Liver Function Test (Hepatic Profile) is a comprehensive blood panel designed to assess the health and functional capacity of your liver. It is suitable for anyone experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal swelling, or dark urine, as well as those with known risk factors for liver disease, including alcohol use, obesity, viral hepatitis, or a family history of liver conditions. It is also used to monitor the effects of medications that can impact liver function and to screen for liver damage in people with conditions such as diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

The panel measures a range of enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels to provide a detailed picture of liver cell integrity, bile flow, and synthetic function.

Enzymes
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST / SGOT) and Alanine transaminase (ALT / SGPT): These enzymes are released into the blood when liver cells are damaged. Elevated levels can indicate hepatitis, fatty liver, or other forms of liver injury.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): An enzyme primarily found in the liver and bile ducts. Raised levels may suggest bile duct obstruction or other liver disorders.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): Often used to confirm whether an elevated ALP is due to liver disease. It is also sensitive to alcohol consumption and certain medications.
- Cholinesterase (CHE): This enzyme is produced by the liver and helps assess the liver's synthetic capacity. Low levels can indicate reduced liver function or exposure to certain toxins.

Proteins
- Total Protein, Albumin, and Globulins: These proteins are made by the liver and are essential for maintaining fluid balance, transporting substances, and supporting immunity. Abnormal levels can reflect chronic liver disease, malnutrition, or other systemic conditions.

Bilirubin and Bile Acids
- Total Bilirubin, Direct Bilirubin (DBIL), and Indirect Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced from the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver processes it for excretion. Elevated levels can cause jaundice and may indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct blockage, or increased red blood cell breakdown.
- Total Bile Acids: These are produced by the liver and aid digestion. Increased levels can be an early sign of liver impairment or cholestasis.

Why it matters
The liver performs hundreds of vital functions, from detoxifying blood to producing proteins and storing energy. Early liver damage often produces no symptoms, so this panel can detect problems before they become serious. By identifying abnormalities in liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin, the test helps your doctor diagnose liver conditions, monitor existing liver disease, assess the impact of medications, and guide timely treatment to protect your long-term health.