LFT Blood Test: Understanding Liver Health

What does the LFT Blood Test measure?

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): Elevated levels of ALT, which is mainly found in liver cells and one of the most specific markers of liver function, often indicates inflammation or liver cell damage.
• Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Present in liver cells, AST is an enzyme that is also found in other organs such as the heart and muscles, elevated levels of AST suggest liver damage, but they are not as specific to the liver as ALT.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Another enzyme found in the liver and various tissues, including bones, and bile ducts, higher than normal ALP level can indicate liver or bone disorders.
• Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): GGT is particularly sensitive to alcohol-related liver damage, it is an enzyme found in liver cells, high GGT levels can point to alternative liver and bile duct disorders.
• Bilirubin: Generated from the breakdown of red blood cells, bilirubin is a waste product of yellow pigment, elevated levels can indicate problems with the liver, or Anaemia.
• Albumin: Low albumin levels can potentially indicate liver diseases, conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, and liver cancer can lead to the liver producing significant less albumin. Monitoring albumin levels will help in assessing the progression of liver disease, and aid in evaluating the effectiveness of treatments like liver transplants or medications.
• Total Protein: Detection of abnormal protein levels (albumin and globulin) in the blood can indicate liver or kidney problems, malnutrition, or other health issues.
• Creatine Kinase (CK): Involved in energy production, elevated levels of this enzyme can be an indication of muscle damage, or other issues, including liver damage.