Liver function tests provides information about the liver. This test is performed on the patient blood sample by measuring albumin, protein and the level of bilirubin in the blood. Here is why you do Liver function tests (LFT)

liver Function Test include are the

Alanine transaminase (ALT),
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST),
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP),
Albumin
Bilirubin tests
The ALT and AST tests measure enzymes the liver releases in response to damage and disease. Some of the test measures how the Liver functions (albumin), and cellular integrity.

When Liver function tests is Necessary ;-

Before becoming pregnant
Liver infection
Symptoms of liver disease
Side Effect of medication on the liver
Degree of liver disease


Symptoms of Liver Disease

Most liver diseases cause only mild symptoms.

jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
Discolored bodily fluid
nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
abdominal pain
weakness
fatigue
weight loss
Types of Liver Function Test

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) test

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in cell lining the bile ducts, of the liver, small intestine, kidney and placenta. Raise in ALP level may indicate liver damage, blockage of the bile ducts , or a bone disease. It place a major role in bone calcification and in the small intestine.

low levels of ALP is found in hypothyroidism ,
pernicious anemia, zinc deficiency.

Pregnancy conditions can also raise ALP levels. The normal range for ALP is 45–115 U/L.

ALP Is done along with other test.

Alanine transaminase (ALT)

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an emzyme found in the kidney, muscle and heart. A raise in Alanine transaminase (ALT) could be due to damage in the kidney.  Rise in ALT is due to chronic hepatitis ,
Alcoholic liver disease.

At pregnancy ALT level increases during second trimester.

ALT have a reference range of 7-56 IU/L.

Aspartate transaminase (AST)

Aspartate transaminase (AST) is an found in muscle, liver and kidney. AST test is usually done along with ALP diagnose Liver problems. AST can raise in pregnancy.

Increase in AST indicate liver and kidney damage. The reference range for AST is 0-35 IU/L.

SEE Scientist develop blood test to determine how long you will live

Albumin Test

Albumin is the major constitutent of total protein made by the liver. Albumin levels are decreased in chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis.

Albumin test measures how the liver is producing protein.

Reference range of Albumin test 3.5 to 5.3 g/dL.

Total Bilirubin

Bilirubin is cleared  by the liver and is a waste product from breakdown of redblood cell
A high result on the bilirubin test indicates that the liver isn’t functioning properly.

When bilirubin deposit at the sclera, skin, and mucous membranes will give these areas yellow colour, thus it is called jaundice.

Reference range of total bilirubin mg/dL 0.1–1.0.

In acute appendicitis , total bilirubin can rise.

In pregnant women, the total bilirubin level is low in all three trimesters.



http://medfort.com.ng/why-you-do-liver-function-tests-lft/