LFT Test - what is it and how the test is done
The liver is the body's largest organ, next only to the skin. The liver has several vital functions to perform. It stores energy from the food, processes it, and even synthesizes several other products and by-products later utilized by the body.
However, under the influence of several factors, the liver might not perform its functions as efficiently as it usually does. Its functions could get compromised and result in the person developing varying symptoms of different intensities.
Therefore, to judge whether a person's liver is functioning efficiently or if it is functioning at reduced capacity, liver function tests are ordered. These tests involve taking a blood sample from your arm and analyzing it for the following parameters:
- Alanine transaminase (ALT)
- Aspartate transaminase (AST)
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
- Albumin and total protein
- Bilirubin
- Prothrombin time
- L-lactate dehydrogenase
- Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT)
Depending on the abnormality of these tests, a person is advised for the appropriate treatment.