The liver is among the chief internal organs in the human body. It is situated under the diaphragm in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. It supports the body's processes of metabolism, digestion, and toxin removal. In addition, the liver is involved in the production, storage, and control of red blood cells. Liver function tests (LFTs), also called Liver Panel tests, are blood tests that measure the amounts of different substances the liver produces to evaluate liver function. The comprehensive group of tests measures the enzymes, proteins, and metabolic waste products associated with liver function.

LFTs are crucial for screening various liver diseases. The tests also help determine whether liver damage or illness is the cause of presenting symptoms. LFTs also assist in assessing the severity of liver disease in individuals with liver disease. The test is helpful for routine monitoring of liver disease and treatment efficacy for the disease. LFTs are also carried out to track the adverse effects of certain drugs that are known to have liver-related side effects. The presence of hepatitis, or liver inflammation, can be detected with LFTs. The tests can also be used to determine the extent of liver damage, the site of the damage (the liver or bile duct), and whether the condition is related to alcohol consumption or other causes (such as metabolic).

Given the stressful lifestyle prevalent in Mumbai, obtaining LFTs is crucial for the early detection and management of potential liver issues, ensuring timely intervention and maintaining overall health.

Before undergoing LFT test in Mumbai, consider the following factors:

Prerequisites

LFTs do not require any significant preparation. Typically, fasting is not needed before testing.

Best Time to Get Tested

The LFT can be conducted at any time of the day.

Who Should Get an LFT Test

Those eligible for LFTs include individuals exhibiting symptoms of liver damage or disease. Additionally, people at high risk for liver damage—such as those with diabetes, obesity, a history of hepatitis from injury or infection, alcohol use, or a family history of liver disease—should consider getting tested. LFTs are also crucial for individuals with diagnosed liver conditions to monitor disease progression and the efficacy of current treatment.

Cautions Before Taking the LFT Test

Before undergoing LFTs, inform your doctor about any current illnesses or medications that could influence your liver enzyme and protein levels.

LFTs offer crucial insights into liver health and overall well-being. Here are key reasons why LFTs might be necessary:

Routine Screenings : LFTs are often included in routine medical checkups by doctors. These tests help in the early detection of liver disease or dysfunction, enabling timely intervention and management.

Diagnosing Liver Problems Based on Symptoms : Symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) can signal liver issues. Other signs include abdominal pain or swelling, dark urine, light-coloured stools, swelling in the legs, or persistent itching. These symptoms necessitate LFTs to assess liver function and diagnose potential problems.

Monitoring for At-Risk Individuals : Regular LFTs are recommended in individuals at risk for liver damage, even if they are asymptomatic. This includes those with a family history of liver disease, challenges with alcohol use disorder (AUD), obesity, diabetes, or medications known to affect liver function. Those with hepatitis or a history of hepatitis from infection or injury also require regular monitoring due to increased risk of liver inflammation and damage.

Management of Existing Liver Conditions : For individuals diagnosed with liver diseases, routine LFTs are essential for tracking disease progression and evaluating treatment effectiveness. Conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or other liver disorders require ongoing assessment to adjust treatment plans and optimise liver health.

Understanding the results of LFT involves comparing the levels of various parameters to their standard normal ranges. Here’s an overview of the normal ranges for each LFT parameter:

Any LFT results that fall outside the normal range may signal various liver conditions, including hepatitis, liver damage, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease. Typically, abnormal LFT results may indicate:

• Impaired liver function resulting from injury or damage to the liver.

• Liver inflammation, known as hepatitis, can be caused by factors like alcohol consumption or infection.

• Problems with the bile duct, essential for transporting bile from the liver to the intestine.

• Potential liver damage due to certain medications.