A liver function test or a hepatic function panel measures the levels of proteins and enzymes excreted by liver. Though some tests denote how well the liver performs its functions, others will measure enzymes that liver cells produce during any liver disease or damage. Liver function tests or LFTs can diagnose and check for liver disease or damage. When the levels are lower or higher than normal range, it denotes the liver is not functioning properly. When to perform a liver function test The doctor asks to perform liver function test to establish the presence of inflammation or damage in your liver. LFTs help to:
How to prepare for liver function test Conducting a liver blood test does not need special preparation. The technician collects blood sample at any time of the day. Certain medicines can affect the result of the test and so, you should tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking. How a liver function test is done The blood will be drawn at the diagnostic centre. For administering the test:
Liver function test cannot provide thorough diagnosis but it gives important clues about potential problems of liver functioning. Some tests included in liver function test include:
Common conditions leading to abnormal LFTs Fatty liver disease – This happens when there is the accumulation of fat in your liver. If the build-up occurs due to consumption of alcohol for a long term, it is called alcoholic fatty liver disease. When alcohol is not a contributing factor for accumulation of fat in the liver, the condition is known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. People suffering from metabolic syndrome are at a greater risk of NAFLD. Though fatty liver might be asymptomatic, it can be the reason for pain and tiredness on the right side of abdomen. Metabolic syndrome Metabolic syndrome includes certain symptoms which increases the risks of cardiovascular disease. Some symptoms are the following:
Hepatitis Hepatitis is inflammation of liver with different strains of hepatitis-causing viruses which are called A, B, C, D, and E. Common symptoms of hepatitis are the following:
Alcohol use disorder Inflammation of your liver happens when you drink excess amount of alcohol. All forms of hepatitis show similar symptoms and the doctor may ask to conduct liver function test and check for the progression of disease. Cirrhosis Cirrhosis is liver damage that occurs due to severe scarring, fibrosis and shrinkage causing liver failure. Untreated fatty liver or hepatitis has greater risk of progression to cirrhosis. Patients with cirrhosis suffer from itching, fatigue and other symptoms. Elevated liver enzymes denote you are suffering from damaged or inflamed liver. Several underlying conditions trigger the beginning and progression of liver damage or inflammation. If the liver function test is abnormal, the doctor finds possible underlying causes for further diagnosis before suggesting a suitable treatment plan to you. Thus, you need to consult with the doctor and find out when you should for a liver function test so that you do not suffer from liver problems.
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