Ordering the Test
Getting a Liver Function Test is important for understanding how well your liver is working. This test measures enzymes and proteins in your blood that show how your liver is functioning. Interestingly, it can detect liver issues even before symptoms appear, which can be crucial for early intervention.
Here are some specific benefits of this lab test:
- Monitors the impact of medications on liver health.
- Detects liver diseases early, even without symptoms.
- Assesses liver health for those who consume alcohol regularly.
Consider ordering this test to keep track of your liver’s health.
Who Should Consider the Test
If you are taking medications that might affect your liver, this test can be beneficial. People with conditions like hepatitis or liver cirrhosis should also consider it. For those who enjoy alcohol, it’s wise to check how your liver is handling it.
Imagine feeling concerned about your liver due to lifestyle or medication. This test can provide reassurance, knowing you’re taking steps to maintain your health.
Here are some scenarios where this test might be needed:
- Regular alcohol consumption.
- Family history of liver disease.
- Use of medications that affect the liver.
- Experiencing fatigue or weakness.
- Curious about liver health due to unexplained weight loss.
Order the test if any of these situations apply to you.
How to Prepare for the Test
Preparing for a liver test is straightforward. Fasting is not required, so you can eat and drink normally. However, it’s important to follow any specific instructions from your doctor, especially if you’re taking supplements or medications. They can provide guidance tailored to your health needs.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Liver Function Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT/SGPT) | 7-56 | ALT is an enzyme that helps break down proteins. It’s mainly found in the liver. | High: High levels of ALT may indicate liver damage. Low: Low levels of ALT are usually not a concern. |
| Albumin | 3.5-5.0 | Albumin is a protein made by the liver. It helps keep fluid in your bloodstream. | High: High levels of albumin can indicate dehydration. Low: Low levels of albumin may suggest liver disease. |
| Albumin/Globulin Ratio | 1.0-2.1 | This ratio compares two types of proteins in your blood. It helps assess liver function. | High: High ratio may indicate liver disease. Low: Low ratio can suggest kidney disease. |
| Alkaline Phosphatase | 44-147 | This enzyme is found in the liver and bones. It helps break down proteins. | High: High levels may indicate liver or bone disease. Low: Low levels are usually not a concern. |
| Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST/SGOT) | 10-40 | AST is an enzyme found in the liver and other organs. It helps with amino acid metabolism. | High: High levels of AST may indicate liver damage. Low: Low levels are usually not a concern. |
| Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) | 9-48 | GGT is an enzyme that helps with the transfer of amino acids. It’s found in the liver. | High: High levels may indicate liver disease. Low: Low levels are usually not a concern. |
| Globulin (calculated) | 2.0-3.5 | Globulin is a group of proteins in your blood. It plays a role in liver function and immunity. | High: High levels may indicate liver disease. Low: Low levels can suggest kidney disease. |
| Bilirubin, direct | 0.1-0.3 | Direct bilirubin is a waste product processed by the liver. It helps assess liver function. | High: High levels may indicate liver disease. Low: Low levels are usually not a concern. |
| Bilirubin, total | 0.2-1.2 | Total bilirubin measures all bilirubin in your blood. It’s a marker of liver health. | High: High levels may indicate liver disease. Low: Low levels are usually not a concern. |
| Protein, total | 6.0-8.3 | Total protein measures all proteins in your blood. It helps assess liver and kidney function. | High: High levels may indicate liver disease. Low: Low levels can suggest kidney disease. |
Reference ranges can vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date reference ranges for this lab test, visit Quest Diagnostics.
Liver Function Test FAQ
Is there Liver Function Test testing near me?
You can find nearby draw locations for the Liver Function Test with our patient service center locator + mobile phlebotomy.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost of the Liver Function Test can be found at the top of the page. Pricing includes draw fees when visiting patient service centers.
How often should I retest?
It’s generally recommended to retest every 6 to 12 months, depending on your health condition and doctor’s advice.
How accurate is the test?
TrueHealthLabs.com only partners with CLIA certified labs, ensuring high accuracy and reliability of your test results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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