Your liver is one of the most vital organs in your body, responsible for processing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and producing essential proteins. At PDRC, we offer Liver Function Tests (LFT) to assess how well your liver is performing its critical functions. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice, or you’re just getting a routine check-up, a liver function test can help identify liver-related issues before they become severe.

What is a Liver Function Test?

A Liver Function Test (LFT) is a blood test that measures the levels of various enzymes, proteins, and substances produced by your liver. By evaluating these substances, your doctor can determine whether your liver is functioning normally or whether there are signs of liver damage or disease.

The test typically includes measurements of several key substances, including:

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)
• Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
• Bilirubin
• Albumin
• Prothrombin Time (PT)

These markers help doctors evaluate liver health, diagnose conditions, and monitor the progress of treatment.

Why is a Liver Function Test Important?

Your liver plays a crucial role in maintaining your health, and it can suffer from a wide range of conditions, many of which may not show clear symptoms until they’re advanced. Regular liver function testing can provide insight into your liver’s health, helping detect issues early and preventing more serious damage. Here’s why LFTs are vital:

1. Diagnosing Liver Diseases
   LFTs can help identify a variety of liver conditions, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer. By assessing the levels of specific enzymes and substances in your blood, a liver function test can help determine whether there is liver damage or inflammation, and pinpoint the underlying cause.

2. Monitoring Chronic Conditions
   If you already have a liver disease, such as chronic hepatitis or fatty liver disease, LFTs can help track your condition over time. Monitoring liver function is key to adjusting treatments and preventing the disease from progressing.

3. Assessing the Impact of Medications or Alcohol Use
   Certain medications and alcohol use can harm your liver. If you are taking medications that can affect the liver (e.g., acetaminophen, statins, or chemotherapy drugs), or if you regularly consume alcohol, your doctor may recommend regular liver function tests to ensure that your liver is coping well.

4. Identifying Other Health Conditions
   Liver function tests can sometimes provide clues about non-liver-related conditions. For example, high levels of liver enzymes can indicate muscle injury, gallbladder disease, or other metabolic disorders, prompting further investigation.

5. Preventing Liver Damage
   If your liver function test shows abnormal results, early intervention can help prevent long-term damage. With lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet, quitting alcohol, or using medications, you can often improve liver health before more severe symptoms or liver damage occurs.

Key Components of a Liver Function Test

1. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)
   ALT is an enzyme found mainly in the liver. Elevated levels of ALT in the blood can indicate liver inflammation or damage. High ALT levels are commonly associated with conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis.

2. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
   AST is another enzyme found in the liver, heart, and muscles. Like ALT, high AST levels suggest liver damage. However, elevated AST can also be seen in heart disease, muscle injury, or other organ issues, so it’s considered alongside other tests for a comprehensive diagnosis.

3. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
   ALP is an enzyme related to bile ducts, bones, and the liver. High levels of ALP can suggest bile duct obstruction, gallstones, or cholestasis (a condition where bile flow is reduced). It may also indicate bone disease or pregnancy.

4. Bilirubin
   Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. The liver processes bilirubin, and high levels of it in the blood can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Elevated bilirubin levels can be a sign of liver disease, bile duct obstructions, or blood disorders.

5. Albumin
   Albumin is a protein made by the liver. Low levels of albumin can indicate chronic liver disease, as well as kidney problems or malnutrition. Albumin levels also help assess the liver’s ability to produce proteins necessary for bodily functions.

6. Prothrombin Time (PT)
   Prothrombin time measures how long it takes for your blood to clot. The liver produces clotting factors, and prolonged PT can suggest liver dysfunction or damage. It is often used to assess the severity of liver disease, particularly in cirrhosis or liver failure.

When Should You Get a Liver Function Test?

Liver function tests are generally recommended in the following situations:

1. Routine Checkups
   If you’re undergoing routine health checkups, your doctor may suggest LFTs to screen for potential liver problems, especially if you’re at higher risk for liver disease due to factors like age, family history, or lifestyle.

2. Symptoms of Liver Issues
   If you’re experiencing symptoms like jaundice, abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, nausea, dark urine, or pale stools, LFTs can help determine if liver disease is the cause.

3. Monitor Existing Liver Conditions
   If you’ve already been diagnosed with liver conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease, regular liver function tests will help track your progress and effectiveness of any treatments.

4. Risk Factors for Liver Disease
   If you have risk factors such as heavy alcohol consumption, a history of viral infections like hepatitis B or C, obesity, diabetes, or a family history of liver disease, your doctor may recommend LFTs to monitor your liver’s health.

Why Choose PDRC for Liver Function Testing?

1. Accurate and Reliable Results
   At PDRC, we use advanced technology and highly skilled laboratory technicians to provide accurate and reliable liver function test results. Our tests are carefully conducted to ensure the most precise diagnosis.

2. Comprehensive Testing and Analysis
   Our liver function tests go beyond just a few markers. We provide a thorough analysis of all relevant liver enzymes and proteins to give you a complete picture of your liver’s health.

3. Quick Turnaround Time
   We understand that timely results are essential for managing your health. At PDRC, we provide quick and efficient liver function testing, so you don’t have to wait long for the information you need.

4. Personalized Care
   Our healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing personalized care based on your test results. We will guide you through your results and work with you to create a plan to maintain or improve your liver health.

Take Charge of Your Liver Health with PDRC

Your liver plays a key role in your overall health, and maintaining its proper function is essential. At PDRC, we are committed to helping you monitor and protect your liver through comprehensive liver function testing. Early detection of liver issues can prevent long-term damage and ensure a better quality of life.

Book your Liver Function Test today at PDRC and take the first step toward a healthier liver. With our state-of-the-art technology, expert care, and fast results, you can rest assured that your liver health is in good hands. Let’s work together to keep your liver—and your overall health—in optimal condition!