Liver Function Test (LFT) – Liver Assessments

 
The Liver Function Test (LFT) measures the level of certain liver enzymes (proteins) in the blood and the overall function of the liver. The LFT can be used to determine whether the liver is functioning well, monitor the progression or treatment of a disease, and assess the side effects of certain medications. It is important that the liver is functioning properly as a damaged liver may lead to serious health conditions.
 
Some of the main functions of the liver include:

• Store nutrients, fat, cholesterol
• Remove toxins from the body
• Metabolise and process medications
• Detoxify the blood
• Regulate blood clotting
• Remove bacteria or fight infections

 
Common conditions associated with a need for assessing liver function include:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Irregular bowel movement
• Yellow skin/eyes
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Weight management
• Liver disease
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Strong medications

 
The markers assessed in the Liver Function Test include:

• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
• Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT)
• Albumin
• Total Protein
• Bilirubin