Liver Function Test Price, Normal Range, Preparation & Results

What Is a Liver Function Test?

Liver function tests , commonly known as LFT or liver panel, are essential blood tests used to evaluate liver health and functionality. Liver Function Test measures various substances produced by the liver, including enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin, providing valuable insights into the liver's condition.

The test measures the concentration of liver proteins and liver enzymes. LFTs are also used to diagnose and monitor liver injuries, monitor the progress of liver disease, as well as detect jaundice.

Assessment of these parameters collectively allows doctors to identify liver disease and monitor the individual’s response to treatment and the impact of any medications on liver health.

LFT Test Price

Orange Health Labs provide LFT starting from ₹700, with the added convenience of home sample collection at your preferred time. Orange Health Labs provides dependable and cost-effective testing services, ensuring samples are collected by trained eMedics from a location of your choice. Please note that the test prices may vary depending on your city and the selected laboratory. A breakdown of LFT costs across different cities is provided below:

LFT Test Cost Across India

S.No	Test In City	Price
1	Liver Function Test (LFT) Test in Bangalore	₹ 700
2	Liver Function Test (LFT) Test in Gurgaon	₹ 700
3	Liver Function Test (LFT) Test in Delhi	₹ 700
4	Liver Function Test (LFT) Test in Hyderabad	₹ 650
5	Liver Function Test (LFT) Test in Mumbai	₹ 700
6	Liver Function Test (LFT) Test in Noida	₹ 700

Preparations Before the LFT

No specific preparations or fasting are generally required for Liver Function Test. However, the following is essential:

Medication Disclosure: Inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as these may affect liver enzyme levels.

Liver Function Test Procedure

A blood sample is required for the Liver Function Test . After booking the test with Orange Health Labs, a skilled eMedic will visit your location for sample collection. The LFT procedure is as follows:

Preparation: The eMedic will explain the process to you and ensure you are seated comfortably.
Site Selection: A suitable vein, usually in the inner elbow, will be chosen and cleaned with an antiseptic wipe to maintain hygiene.
Needle Insertion: A sterile needle will be inserted into the vein to draw blood. You may feel a mild sting or pinch during this step.
Blood Collection: The required amount of blood will be collected into a vial for testing.
Needle Removal: The needle will be carefully removed, and pressure will be applied to the site using a gauze pad to prevent bleeding.
Bandaging: A small bandage will be placed on the puncture site to protect it.

The sample collection can be completed in no time. The entire process typically takes 10–15 minutes. The results of LFTs are usually available within 6 hours after sample collection.

Why Take the LFT?

LFT plays a vital role in evaluating liver health and functionality. Liver Function Test are usually recommended by the doctor to:

Detecting liver inflammation or disease : LFTs can help identify inflammation of the liver, such as hepatitis, which may be caused by infection, autoimmune conditions, or exposure to harmful substances.
Evaluate liver function : These tests assess how well the liver is performing essential functions, such as processing nutrients, producing proteins, and detoxifying harmful substances. If liver function is impaired, LFTs help gauge the severity of the dysfunction.
Identify bile flow issues : Abnormal results in certain liver enzymes can indicate problems in the bile ducts, such as blockages or cholestasis, which can affect bile flow and digestion.
Monitor medication effects on the liver : Some medications, particularly long-term or high-dose drugs, can negatively affect liver health. Liver Function Tests are used to monitor how medications may be affecting liver function and detect early signs of damage.
Assess alcohol-related liver damage : LFTs help distinguish between liver issues caused by alcohol use and other forms of liver disease, enabling better diagnosis and management of alcohol-related liver damage.
Identify liver disease in individuals without symptoms : Even without clear symptoms, individuals at high risk for liver disease, such as those with a family history of liver disease or certain lifestyle factors, may benefit from regular LFTs to detect potential liver problems early.
Track existing liver conditions and treatment effectiveness : For individuals with known liver disease, Liver Function Test are important for monitoring the progression of the condition and evaluating treatment efficacy to prevent further damage.

Who Should Take the LFT Test?

LFT are important for individuals at risk of liver disease or those showing signs of liver dysfunction. These tests help in the early detection and monitoring of liver health. LFTs may need to be checked in individuals:

Experiencing symptoms like jaundice, abdominal pain, dark urine, and fatigue.
With chronic liver conditions such as hepatitis, alcohol dependency, or metabolic disorders.
On medications that may affect liver function.
With a family history of liver disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.
Who have been exposed to hepatitis.

Signs That You Might Need a Liver Function Test

Liver Function Test are recommended if you exhibit symptoms that may indicate liver disease or damage, such as:

Persistent nausea and vomiting.
Loss of appetite without an apparent cause.
Constant fatigue or unexplained weakness.
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).
Swelling or pain in the abdominal region.
Fluid retention, causing swelling in the ankles and legs.
Dark-coloured urine or pale-coloured stools.
Frequent episodes of itching.

LFT Results Interpretation

Interpreting LFT results involves assessing the levels of various parameters about their normal ranges. The normal results for Liver Function Test are as follows:

LFT Parameter	Normal Range
Total Bilirubin	0.2-1.3 mg/dL (adults); 1.0-10.5 mg/dL (neonates)
Direct Bilirubin	0.0-0.3 mg/dL (adults); 0.0-0.6 mg/dL (neonates)
Indirect Bilirubin	0.1-1.1 mg/dL (adults); 0.6-10.5 mg/dL (neonates)
ALT	<50 U/L
AST	17-49 U/L
AST/ALT Ratio	0.7-1.4
ALP	38-126 U/L
GGT	15-73 U/L
Total Protein	6.0-8.3 g/dL
Albumin	3.5-5.0 g/dL
Globulin	2.3-3.5 g/dL

LFT results outside the normal range can indicate various liver-related conditions, such as liver injury or dysfunction, and the pattern of these elevations (hepatocellular, cholestatic, or mixed) can assist doctors in diagnosing the specific disease. The interpretation of abnormal levels of LFT parameters is as below.

Parameter	Interpretation
Total Bilirubin	High levels are invariably due to jaundice. They can indicate liver dysfunction, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or obstruction of the bile ducts (cholestasis). Total bilirubin may also be elevated in haemolytic anaemia due to the increased breakdown of red blood cells. Low levels, though uncommon, may reflect a healthy liver function or insufficient production of bilirubin.
Direct Bilirubin	High levels typically suggest bile duct obstruction or liver diseases like hepatitis, cirrhosis, cholestasis, Dubin-Johnson syndrome, and Rotor syndrome. Low levels are not clinically significant unless accompanied by other liver function abnormalities.
Indirect Bilirubin	High levels may indicate conditions such as haemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) or Gilbert’s syndrome, Crigler-Najjar syndrome, neonatal jaundice, and ineffective erythropoiesis. Low levels are usually of no concern and indicate normal bilirubin metabolism.
ALT	High levels are typically a sign of hepatocellular injury and are seen in liver cell necrosis, hepatitis, hepatic cirrhosis, liver tumours, obstructive jaundice, Reye’s syndrome, extensive trauma to skeletal muscle, myositis, myocarditis, or myocardial infarction. ALT is considered a more specific indicator of liver damage compared to AST. Low levels are generally not a concern and do not indicate liver damage.
AST	High levels indicate liver damage, often due to conditions like cirrhosis, alcohol-related liver disease, or muscle injury. However, AST can also rise in non-hepatic conditions, such as haemolysis or myocardial infarction. Low levels are rare and usually indicate good liver function.
AST/ALT Ratio	A high ratio (greater than 2) is often seen in alcoholic liver disease or cirrhosis. It suggests more severe liver injury or a chronic process affecting the liver. A low ratio (less than 1) is commonly seen in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or viral hepatitis, indicating hepatocellular damage.
ALP	High levels typically point to cholestasis or bile duct obstruction, as seen in conditions like primary biliary cirrhosis, bile duct stones, or liver tumours. They may also indicate primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism, Paget’s disease of bone, carcinoma metastatic to the bone, osteogenic sarcoma, Hodgkin’s disease, fever and increased bone metabolism, renal infarction and failure, or pregnancy complications. Low levels may indicate hypothyroidism, malnutrition or certain genetic conditions that affect bone development.
GGT	High levels are often indicative of cholestatic liver diseases such as bile duct obstruction or cirrhosis. GGT is also elevated in cases of alcohol abuse and fatty liver diseases. Low levels may indicate the absence of bile duct or liver pathology.
Total Protein	High levels can indicate chronic inflammation, liver disease, dehydration, Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, multiple myeloma, hyperglobulinemia, and some tropical diseases. Low levels are often seen in pregnancy, excessive intravenous fluid administration, chronic alcoholism, heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, glomerulonephritis, neoplasia, protein-losing enteropathies, malabsorption, severe malnutrition, liver failure, cirrhosis or other liver diseases.
Albumin	High levels are uncommon but can occur in dehydration, where there is a reduced plasma volume. Low levels are indicative of rapid or over-hydration, severe malnutrition and malabsorption, severe diffuse liver necrosis, chronic active hepatitis, neoplasia, liver dysfunction, or nephrotic syndrome.
Globulin	High levels can indicate chronic inflammation, liver disease, or infections such as hepatitis or HIV. Elevated globulins are often seen in conditions where the immune system is activated. Low levels can be associated with malnutrition, immune deficiencies, nephrotic syndrome, or liver diseases where protein synthesis is impaired.

FAQs on Liver Function Test

LFT Test Cost in Bangalore: ₹ 700
LFT Test Price in Delhi: ₹ 700
LFT Test Cost in Gurgaon: ₹ 700
LFT Test Price in Hyderabad: ₹ 650
LFT Test Cost in Mumbai: ₹ 700
LFT Test Price in Noida: ₹ 700

Symptoms of liver dysfunction include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, swollen legs, and dark urine.

LFT tests should be done annually or as recommended by your treating doctor based on your health.

A healthy diet can support liver function but cannot directly improve abnormal LFT results caused by liver disease.

LFT tests are generally safe with minimal risks, although slight discomfort may occur from the blood draw.

Abnormal Liver Function Test can result from various conditions, such as infections, cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or liver cancer.

Abnormal LFT levels may indicate liver damage, inflammation, or a medical condition requiring further investigation.

LFT levels can be safely monitored during pregnancy to assess liver health and prevent complications.

Orange Health Labs ensures timely test results within 6 hours of sample collection.

Liver Function Test are a simple blood test where a sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is analysed to measure liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels, with results usually delivered on the same day.

Fasting is generally not required for an LFT test, but it’s best to follow your doctor's instructions.

What Does the Liver Function Test Measure?

There are several parameters checked in LFT such as enzymes, bilirubin, and proteins. The details of these parameters are provided below:

Enzymes

The following enzymes are checked in LFTs :

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): ALT is a liver enzyme that is also present in the heart, kidneys, and muscles. High ALT levels are detected in liver disease involving injury or inflammation. Very low levels may be a sign of loss of liver cells or muscle mass.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): AST is another liver enzyme that, when elevated, suggests liver damage or conditions such as cirrhosis or advanced liver disease. Low levels of AST are usually not concerning.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): ALP is found in various organs, including the liver, bones, kidneys, and intestines. Elevated ALP levels may signal liver dysfunction or issues with bile flow. Low ALP levels may suggest malnutrition, bone disorder, or zinc deficiency.
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): GGT is a liver enzyme produced by bile ducts. Increased GGT levels can be indicative of conditions like liver or bile duct damage, alcohol use disorder, pancreatitis or heart failure.

Proteins

Total Protein: This test measures the total amount of albumin and globulin in the blood. Both are synthesised by the liver and play an important role in maintaining fluid balance and immune function. Variations in total protein levels may reflect liver, kidney, or gastrointestinal problems. Low total protein levels can indicate liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or gastrointestinal conditions affecting protein absorption like Crohn’s disease. High total protein levels may indicate conditions like viral hepatitis, HIV, or multiple myeloma.
Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio: Albumin is a key protein that helps transport various substances in the blood, while globulin plays a role in immunity and nutrient transport. The A/G ratio is useful in diagnosing liver and kidney diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and certain genetic or immune disorders. A low A/G ratio is often associated with liver disease, kidney disease, or chronic inflammation. It may also reflect autoimmune disease. A high A/G ratio may be caused by cancer of the blood cells (leukaemia) or some genetic disorders.

Bilirubin

Total Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced from the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver processes it and eliminates it as bile. High bilirubin levels are a sign of liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction. Low bilirubin levels can indicate reduced liver function in severe cases.
Indirect Bilirubin: This form of bilirubin is water-insoluble and enters the liver, where it is converted into direct bilirubin. Increased levels may indicate liver problems. Low indirect bilirubin levels are rare and may suggest problems with red blood cell turnover.
Direct Bilirubin: It is a water-soluble form of bilirubin. Elevated direct bilirubin levels often suggest liver impairment or obstruction in the bile ducts. Low direct bilirubin levels are uncommon and may indicate a decrease in liver function or excretion.

Normal LFT Levels

The normal range for parameters in the LFTs is given in the table above. Normal LFTs typically indicate that the liver is functioning well, with no significant damage or disease. For individuals receiving treatment for liver-related conditions, normal LFTs signify that the liver is responding well to treatment.

LFT Parameter	Normal Range
Total Bilirubin	0.2-1.3 mg/dL (adults); 1.0-10.5 mg/dL (neonates)
Direct Bilirubin	0.0-0.3 mg/dL (adults); 0.0-0.6 mg/dL (neonates)
Indirect Bilirubin	0.1-1.1 mg/dL (adults); 0.6-10.5 mg/dL (neonates)
ALT	<50 U/L
AST	17-49 U/L
AST/ALT Ratio	0.7-1.4
ALP	38-126 U/L
GGT	15-73 U/L
Total Protein	6.0-8.3 g/dL
Albumin	3.5-5.0 g/dL
Globulin	2.3-3.5 g/dL

Staying within the normal range typically reflects a balanced lipid metabolism and a lower risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular complications. A deviation from the normal range requires further testing to address any underlying issues.

What Affects Your LFT Test Results?

Medical Conditions That Can Impact LFT Results

Medical conditions, such as pre-existing liver diseases, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver, can significantly alter LFT outcomes. Infections, whether viral or bacterial, may cause elevated enzyme levels, while dehydration can impact protein levels in the blood, potentially affecting test accuracy.

Medications That Can Affect LFT Test Results

Certain medications are known to interfere with LFT results. Statins, commonly prescribed for lowering cholesterol, may increase liver enzyme levels. Antibiotics can temporarily affect enzyme readings, and anti-epileptic drugs used for seizure control may also influence LFT parameters.

Other Factors That Can Affect LFT Results

Lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption before the test can elevate liver enzyme levels and skew results. Similarly, eating a fatty or heavy meal before the test can temporarily affect specific liver markers.

When to Seek Medical Advice Based on LFT Test Results

Consulting a Doctor for High/Abnormal LFT Levels

Consulting a doctor is crucial if your LFT results show significantly elevated or abnormal levels of enzymes, bilirubin, or proteins. Persistently high values may indicate liver inflammation, damage, or diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or bile duct obstruction. Prompt medical attention ensures timely diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions.

Advantages of Early LFT Testing

Liver Function Test offer comprehensive insight into your liver health, providing essential information to detect and manage liver-related conditions, as follows:

Early Detection of Liver Issues : LFTs help identify liver disease or damage in its initial stages, allowing for timely diagnosis and intervention before complications arise.
Monitoring Liver Health Over Time : These tests are essential for tracking the progression or improvement of liver-related conditions, helping healthcare providers assess the effectiveness of treatments and lifestyle changes.
Guidance for Medication Adjustments : LFT results provide the critical information needed to adjust medications that may impact liver function, ensuring safe and optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Common Diseases Diagnosed by LFT

Liver Function Test can help identify a wide range of liver-related conditions, such as:

Fatty liver disease
Toxic hepatitis
Autoimmune hepatitis
Viral hepatitis (A, B, or C)
Hemochromatosis (excessive iron buildup in the liver)
Wilson’s disease (abnormal copper accumulation in the liver)
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (a genetic condition affecting liver and lung health)
Primary biliary cholangitis (damage to bile ducts leading to liver dysfunction)
Cirrhosis (scarring of liver tissue)
Liver cancer

Risk Factors for Liver Dysfunction

Factors that increase the risk of liver dysfunction (leading to abnormal Liver Function Test) include:

Excessive alcohol consumption
Increased body weight and obesity
Chronic hepatitis infections (B and C)
Fatty liver
Diabetes
Long-term use of liver-toxic medications

Being aware of these risks helps in taking proactive measures to maintain liver health.

Complications of Untreated Liver Issues

Untreated liver issues can cause progressive liver damage and, eventually, end-stage liver disease. Complications of end-stage renal disease include:

Liver scarring
Portal hypertension
Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
Kidney failure (hepatorenal syndrome)
Respiratory failure (hepatopulmonary syndrome)
Enlarged spleen

How to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle?

A healthy liver helps maintain normal LFT parameters. To maintain a healthy liver, it's important to make a few lifestyle changes that protect and support its function. These include:

Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Reduces the risk of fatty liver disease and improves liver health.
Eating a Balanced Diet: Focus on fibre-rich foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats while avoiding excessive sugars and processed foods.
Exercising Regularly: Helps burn fat and improve liver function.
Avoiding Toxins: Minimise exposure to harmful chemicals and always use protective gear when necessary.
Limiting Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol damages the liver. Consult your doctor for safe limits.
Avoiding Illicit Drugs: They can cause significant liver damage.
Following Medication Guidelines: Take medications as prescribed and inform your doctor about all drugs and supplements you use.
Getting Vaccinated: Protect your liver health with hepatitis A and B vaccines.
Scheduling Regular Checkups: Periodic liver health assessments allow for monitoring of liver health and also aid in the early detection and management of potential issues.

Similar Tests to Liver Function Test

In addition to Liver Function Test, several other diagnostic tests can help evaluate liver health or identify liver-related conditions. These tests include:

International Normalized Ratio (INR) : Measures blood clotting time, which can indicate liver dysfunction.
5'-Nucleotidase Test : Measures the enzyme elevated in conditions affecting bile flow, such as cholestasis.
Viral Hepatitis Tests : Detects hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E infections, which can cause liver damage.
Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test : Measures alpha-fetoprotein levels, which can be elevated in liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) or other liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
Antimitochondrial Antibodies (AMAs) : Detects antibodies associated with autoimmune liver conditions like primary biliary cirrhosis, aiding in the diagnosis of autoimmune liver diseases.
Serum Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Test (A1AT) : Detects low levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin, which can indicate a genetic disorder that leads to liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, in both children and adults.

Difference Between the LFT and Other Similar Tests

While Liver Function Test can help identify liver damage, they do not pinpoint the exact cause or type of liver disorder. Other similar tests provide more specific information regarding the liver’s function or the presence of particular liver diseases:

LFTs vs. INR : While LFTs give an overall view of liver function, INR specifically measures the liver's ability to produce clotting factors, providing more detailed insight into liver dysfunction that affects coagulation.
LFTs vs. 5'-Nucleotidase : Liver Function Test may show general liver damage, but the 5'-nucleotidase test is more specific for identifying diseases that block bile flow, such as cholestasis, which is not always detected through routine LFTs.
Liver Function Test vs. Viral Hepatitis Tests : Liver Function Test measure liver injury but do not indicate the underlying cause. Viral hepatitis tests, on the other hand, help identify whether a viral infection is contributing to liver damage, enabling targeted treatment.

Liver Function Testing During Special Conditions

Liver Function Test are essential in monitoring pregnant women, as abnormal results occur in 3–5% of pregnancies, indicating a range of conditions.

Pregnancy-related liver diseases such as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, HELLP syndrome (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets), and acute fatty liver of pregnancy pose significant risks to both maternal and foetal health. These conditions can lead to severe liver damage, foetal distress, and sometimes liver failure, necessitating rapid diagnosis and intervention.
In rare cases, pre-existing liver diseases, including chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and Budd Chiari syndrome, can complicate pregnancy. Early identification and appropriate management of these conditions are critical to minimise risks for both the mother and baby.

Early diagnosis and rapid management are essential to prevent severe complications, such as foetal distress during pregnancy or liver failure.

Liver Function Test (LFT)

Test Name	Liver Function test
Price	The LFT test price is ₹ 700 *
Also Known As	LFT test, Liver panel, Liver Function panel, Liver Profile, Hepatic Function Panel, Liver blood test
Purpose	To identify liver disease or injury, damage, and inflammation.
Pre-test Information	Fasting is not required for a Liver Function test.
Report Delivery	Get reports within 6 hours.
Frequency	As prescribed by your doctor.
Home Testing	Yes, home blood sample collection in 60 minutes from booking.
Sample Required	A blood sample is required for a Liver Function test.