Liver function tests (LFTs) look at key enzymes produced by the liver, along with protein levels. These tests will yield vital information regarding liver health. Liver Function Test's can be disordered with viral infections (various forms of hepatitis), from excessive alcohol and by a number of medications. What are the primary liver function tests? Typically the primary liver function tests would include Bilirubin total, ALT, AST, Protein total, Alkaline Phosphatase, Albumin, Globulin, GGT. Why do I need liver function testing? You may require liver function testing or monitoring for a number of reasons. The liver function blood test is usually requested for the following purposes: To monitor overall health, assessing a patient's liver function before/during treatments, monitoring existing liver conditions, diagnosing liver diseases and more. What AST and ALT levels indicate liver disease? AST and ALT are both enzymes, if they show as elevated in the blood, this can indicate liver disease or damage. However, depending on the patient's current health/conditions these levels can vary. If a patient's AST and ALT were elevated this would require further investigation to determine the cause.
