LIVER FUNCTION TESTS (LFTS)
Index
1. Introduction
2. Physiology of Liver
3. Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Overview
4. SGPT / ALT
5. SGOT / AST
6. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
7. Bilirubin (Total, Direct, Indirect)
8. Serum Proteins (Albumin & Globulin)
9. Prothrombin Time (PT)
10. Clinical Importance of LFT
11. Conclusion
INTRODUCTION
The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body.
It is the largest gland which performs numerous functions
essential for life. It helps in digestion, metabolism, synthesis
of proteins, detoxification of harmful substances,
production of bile and regulation of biochemical reactions.
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) measure specific enzymes,
proteins, and substances that are either produced or
processed by the liver. Abnormalities in these parameters
give valuable information about liver function, extent of
damage, and possible underlying diseases.
PHYSIOLOGY OF LIVER
The liver is the largest internal organ and performs
many vital functions in the body. Major functions
include:
Metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
Detoxification of drugs and toxins
Production of bile for digestion
Storage of vitamins and minerals
Synthesis of plasma proteins and clotting factors
Because of these important functions, liver health is
essential for maintaining overall body balance.
LIVER FUNCTION TESTS (LFTS): OVERVIEW
LFTs provide information about the state of the liver
and biliary [Link] can be broadly categorized
into:
Enzymes released during liver cell damage (e.g.,
SGPT/ALT, SGOT/AST)
Enzymes related to bile duct obstruction (e.g.,
Alkaline Phosphatase, Gamma-glutamyl
transferase)
Tests of biosynthetic function (e.g., Albumin,
Prothrombin Time)
Tests for metabolism and excretion (e.g., Bilirubin)
SGPT / ALT
SGPT is considered a very sensitive marker of liver
health.
SGPT (Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase),
also called Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), is an
enzyme present mainly in the liver.
Its normal value is around 7-56 U/L.
Elevated SGPT levels usually indicate liver cell
injury, such as viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver
disease, fatty liver, or drug-induced damage.
SGOT / AST
SGOT (Serum Glutamate Oxaloacetate
Transaminase), also called Aspartate
Aminotransferase (AST), is found in the liver, heart,
skeletal muscles, and kidneys.
Normal value: approximately 8–40 U/L.
Raised levels may indicate liver injury, myocardial
infarction, or muscle diseases.
ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE (ALP)
ALP is an enzyme present in liver cells, bile ducts,
and bones.
Normal value: around 44–147 IU/L.
Increased ALP levels are commonly associated with
bile duct obstruction, liver disease, or bone
disorders.
BILIRUBIN (TOTAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT)
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed by the
breakdown of hemoglobin.
It is carried to the liver, conjugated, and then
excreted into bile.
Normal total bilirubin level: 0.3–1.2 mg/dL.
Elevated bilirubin causes jaundice and may indicate
hepatitis, cirrhosis, bile duct obstruction, or
hemolytic anemia.
Direct (conjugated) bilirubin indicates obstruction
or hepatocellular [Link] (unconjugated)
bilirubin increases in hemolysis.
SERUM PROTEINS (ALBUMIN & GLOBULIN)
The liver synthesizes important proteins such as
albumin.
Albumin maintains osmotic pressure and
transports substances in blood.
Low albumin levels suggest chronic liver disease or
malnutrition.
Globulin levels may rise in chronic liver conditions.
PROTHROMBIN TIME (PT)
Prothrombin Time measures blood clotting ability.
Clotting factors are synthesized in the liver.
Prolonged PT indicates impaired liver synthetic
function.
PT is useful in assessing severity of liver disease.
CLINICAL IMPORTANCE OF LFT
LFTs are useful in multiple ways:
Diagnosis of liver diseases
Monitoring chronic liver diseases
Drug safety assessment
surgery and pregnancy-related complications
General health check-up
CONCLUSION
Liver Function Tests are one of the most important
diagnostic tools in clinical pathology. LFT provides a
clear picture of the functional status of the liver. It
helps in the early detection of liver diseases,
monitoring the progress of treatment, and ensuring
safe use of medicines.
For pharmacists, knowledge of LFT is crucial in
understanding drug safety, counseling patients, and
working effectively with doctors in healthcare
management.