By Shilpa | March 26, 2025
What Is Liver Test ?
A Liver Test , also known as a Liver Function Test (LFT), is a blood test that helps assess the health of the liver by measuring levels of enzymes, proteins, and other substances in the blood.
Liver tests are used to:
Check for liver disease (e.g., hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis).
Monitor liver function in people with existing liver conditions.
Detect liver damage caused by alcohol, medications, or infections.
Assess the effectiveness of treatments for liver disease.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) – High levels indicate liver damage.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) – Elevated levels suggest liver or muscle injury.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) – Helps diagnose bile duct problems or liver disease.
Bilirubin – High levels may indicate jaundice or liver disease.
Albumin & Total Protein – Low levels can suggest liver dysfunction.
Importance Of Liver Test
A Liver Function Test (LFT) is crucial for evaluating liver health and detecting potential liver diseases. Here are the key reasons why a liver test is important:
Helps identify conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver infections before symptoms appear.
Early detection allows for timely treatment and better outcomes.
Checks how well the liver is working, including its ability to process nutrients, filter toxins, and produce proteins.
Helps doctors assess liver damage and the need for lifestyle or medication changes.
Some medications, including painkillers and antibiotics, can affect liver function.
Regular testing ensures that medications are not harming the liver.
Yellowing of the skin (jaundice), fatigue, and abdominal pain can be signs of liver issues.
A liver test helps determine the underlying cause of these symptoms.
Patients with diabetes, high cholesterol, or obesity are at higher risk of liver disease.
Routine liver tests help monitor and prevent complications.
Benefits Of Liver Test
Helps track the liver’s function, especially in individuals with chronic conditions, alcohol use, or medication side effects.
Can help uncover infections, bile duct problems, or metabolic disorders affecting liver function.
Some medications can impact liver health; regular tests ensure that prescriptions are not causing liver damage.
Helps doctors tailor diet, medication, or lifestyle changes based on liver health status.
A healthy liver is essential for digestion, metabolism, detoxification, and overall vitality.