Liver Function Tests (LFTs), also known as a liver panel, are a group of blood tests used to measure specific proteins, enzymes, and bilirubin levels.
These results help doctors assess the health of your liver, which acts as the “central factory” of the human body.
While the kidneys act as the body’s “filtration system,” the liver is its primary manufacturing and processing plant. Its roles include:
Detoxification: Filtering toxins from the blood.
Metabolism: Processing alcohol, medications, and nutrients.
Synthesis: Producing essential proteins (like albumin) and bile for digestion.
Storage: Housing vital vitamins and minerals.
A standard LFT result includes several markers. While “normal” ranges can vary slightly between laboratories, the following are the standard clinical benchmarks:
1. Liver Enzymes (Markers of Damage)
When liver cells are inflamed or injured, these enzymes leak into the bloodstream.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): 15–45 IU/L. Most specific to the liver.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): 15–42 IU/L. Also found in heart and muscle.
Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT): 1–55 IU/L. Often used to detect bile duct issues or alcohol consumption.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): 30–130 IU/L. Found in both the liver and bones.
2. Liver Proteins & Function Markers
These markers indicate how well the liver is actually performing its manufacturing duties.
Albumin (Alb): 35–50 g/L. Low levels often indicate chronic liver disease or malnutrition.
Bilirubin (Bili): <21 µmol/L. High levels cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes).
Globulin (Glob): 20–40 g/L.
Total Protein (TP): 60–80 g/L.
Key Takeaway: The best indicators of actual liver function (how well the factory is running) are Albumin and Bilirubin. The other enzymes (ALT/AST) primarily indicate liver stress or damage.
| Test Marker | Abbreviation | Normal Range* | High/Low Meaning |
| Bilirubin | Bili | <21 µmol/L | High: Jaundice / Bile duct blockage |
| Albumin | Alb | 35–50 g/L | Low: Impaired liver function / Cirrhosis |
| Alanine Transferase | ALT | 15–45 IU/L | High: Liver inflammation or injury |
| Alkaline Phos. | ALP | 30–130 IU/L | High: Gallstones or Bone disorders |
*Note: Always check your specific lab report for the reference range used by your healthcare provider.
A doctor may request these tests if you are experiencing symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice, or to monitor the side effects of certain medications.
They are frequently ordered alongside a Full Blood Count (FBC) and Urea & Electrolytes (U&E) and Bone for a complete health overview.
Liver Function Tests are essential for diagnosing conditions ranging from fatty liver disease to hepatitis. By monitoring your “factory’s” output—specifically your Albumin and Bilirubin—doctors can catch liver dysfunction before it becomes severe.
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