Introduction
Building on our exploration of liver functions, this article, guided by insights from Dr. Parul Garg, delves into liver function tests (LFTs). These tests are crucial for assessing the health of your liver and identifying potential issues early.
Types of Liver Function Tests
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): Elevated levels can indicate liver damage.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Like ALT, high AST levels can signal liver injury.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): High ALP can suggest bile duct problems or liver inflammation.
- Bilirubin: Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or bile duct blockage.
- Albumin and Total Protein: These tests assess liver’s protein-synthesizing function, important for overall health.
Interpreting Test Results
Understanding LFT results can be complex:
- Normal Ranges: Each test has a normal range, and deviations can point to liver issues.
- Patterns of Results: Combinations of results can indicate specific types of liver conditions.
Relevance of Tests
LFTs help diagnose conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis, guiding further diagnostic and treatment strategies. They are essential for monitoring the progression of known liver conditions and assessing the impact of treatments.
Conclusion
Liver function tests are a window into your liver’s health, providing essential information that can prevent serious health issues. If you’re concerned about your liver health, discuss getting these tests with your healthcare provider. In our next article, we will explore liver infections, further enhancing your understanding of liver health as part of this comprehensive series led by Dr. Parul Garg.
Stay tuned for the next instalment, where we will break down liver infections, their types, effects, and health tips to maintain a healthy liver.