Q. What are some of the things a doctor might be looking for in an LFT blood test?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
A doctor might order a liver function test (LFT), also known as a liver panel or liver blood test, to check for a variety of things related to your liver health. Here's a breakdown of some key areas a doctor may be looking at:
1. Identifying Liver Damage:
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The liver function test measures the levels of enzymes and proteins in your blood. Abnormal levels of these substances can indicate damage to liver cells.
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For instance, high levels of enzymes like ALT (alanine transaminase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) often suggest liver injury.
2. Screening for Liver Diseases:
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LFTs can help screen for various liver diseases, including hepatitis (viral infections), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), and fatty liver disease.
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The test results along with your symptoms can help guide further investigation.
3. Monitoring Existing Liver Disease:
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If you already have a diagnosed liver condition, LFTs become crucial for monitoring the progression of the disease.
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Tracking changes in enzyme and protein levels over time helps assess the effectiveness of treatment and identify any potential complications.
4. Checking for Medication Side Effects:
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Certain medications can have side effects on the liver.
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An LFT can help identify any liver damage caused by medications you're taking.
5. Overall Liver Function Assessment:
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The liver performs many vital functions, including protein synthesis, waste product removal, and blood clotting.
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LFT results provide a general idea of how well your liver is functioning in these areas.
It's important to remember that an LFT alone may not be diagnostic of a specific liver condition. However, it's a valuable tool for doctors to assess your liver health and determine if further tests are necessary.
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