Liver Function Tests: A Quick Guide for Correct Diagnosis
The liver is one of the most important organs in the body, responsible for filtering toxins, processing nutrients, and producing bile, among other functions. To evaluate the health of the liver and diagnose liver diseases, doctors often order liver function tests (LFTs). In this article, we will discuss what LFTs are, how they are performed, what they measure, and what the results may indicate. What are Liver Function Tests? Liver function tests (LFTs), also known as liver enzyme tests, are blood tests that measure the levels of various enzymes, proteins, and other substances produced by the liver. These tests can help doctors diagnose liver diseases, monitor the progression of a disease, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. How are Liver Function Tests performed? Liver function tests are simple blood tests that are performed in a medical laboratory. A healthcare provider will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm, which is then sent to a lab for analysis....