Why Liver Function Tests (LFTs)?
The liver is a large organ in your abdomen that is critical to your survival. It regulates many of the components in your blood by helping the body rid itself of poisons (toxins) and excess chemicals. Your doctor will normally order LFTs during routine, annual checkups or if you have any symptoms of liver malfunction such as yellowed eyes/skin tone, or unusual fatigue. Types of LFTs/Common Causes of Elevations: ALT (alanine aminotransferase or formerly known as SGPT): – ALT is an enzyme found in high concentrations in the liver and kidneys. It may also be found in the skeletal muscle, the heart, and the pancreas. Elevated levels can be important clues in helping diagnose both systemic and specific liver diseases. – Common causes of high ALT levels include: – Hepatitis – Cirrhosis – Infectious Mononucleosis AST (asparate aminotransferase or formerly known as SGOT): – AST is another enzyme found primarily in the liver and kidneys, but may also be found in other parts of the body. – Commo
