Liver function tests (LFTs)

• Jaundice (the yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Fatigue or weakness
• Abdominal discomfort or edema
• Dark urine or pale stool
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itchy skin

• Suspected liver illness or injury.
• Monitoring chronic liver conditions.
• History of alcohol use or liver risk factors
• Abnormal imaging or past test findings
• Monitoring the impact of medication on the liver.
• Routine health check-ups for at-risk persons

• Hepatitis – inflammation of the liver caused by viral infections or other factors
• Fatty liver disease – buildup of fat in liver cells, affecting function
• Cirrhosis – long-term liver damage leading to scarring
• Liver infections – bacterial or viral infections affecting liver health
• Liver cancer – abnormal growth of liver cells
• Bile duct disorders – conditions affecting bile flow from the liver

• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) suggests liver cell damage.
• Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) assesses the enzyme levels in the liver and muscles.
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) shows bile duct function.
• Bilirubin quantifies waste products metabolised by the liver.
• Albumin measures protein synthesis by the liver.
• Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) helps detect bile duct abnormalities.

LFT findings indicate how effectively the liver functions by assessing enzyme levels and protein synthesis. Abnormal levels may suggest liver inflammation, injury, or illness, necessitating additional testing or monitoring.

• Abnormal findings may not necessarily indicate a specific diagnosis.
• Mild changes may not indicate severe illness.
• Medications, alcohol, and recent sickness can all have an impact on the results.
• Additional testing or imaging may be needed for confirmation.

• Follow fasting instructions if suggested.
• Avoid drinking alcohol before the test.
• Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements.
• Stay hydrated, unless directed otherwise.