Normal ranges for LFTs can vary slightly between laboratories due to different testing methods. A doctor can interpret your results in context with the specific lab's reference range.
Normal ranges provide a general guideline, but some individuals might naturally have slightly higher or lower values without necessarily indicating a problem. A doctor can consider your medical history and other factors for a complete picture.
LFTs measure various aspects of liver function. A doctor can analyze the results of all tests together to identify any abnormal patterns that might suggest a problem.
When Are Liver Function Tests Done?
To screen for hepatitis or liver diseases.
To monitor disease progression or treatment effectiveness.
To assess medication side effects on the liver
General LFT ranges
Here are some common LFTs and their typical ranges:
ALT (Alanine aminotransferase): 7-55 units per liter (U/L)
AST (Aspartate aminotransferase): 8-48 U/L
ALP (Alkaline phosphatase): 40-129 U/L
GGT (Gamma-glutamyl transferase): 8-61 U/L
Albumin: 3.5-5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL)
Total bilirubin: 0.1-1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)
Any result greater than these limits is called "High LFT Levels"
There are various causes for elevated LFT results, not just liver disease. A doctor can determine the underlying cause, thus Elevated Levels Don't Always Mean Disease.
While less common, abnormally low levels in some LFTs can also indicate health problems, thus Low Levels Might Also Be Concerning.
What should my Liver Function Test results be?
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are essential for assessing the health of your liver. These blood tests measure various substances produced by your liver, providing valuable information about its overall function. Let’s break down the key components of Liver Function Tests:
Liver Enzymes:
Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Elevated levels of these enzymes indicate liver injury. ALT is more specific to the liver, while AST is found in other tissues as well.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Elevated ALP levels may indicate liver or bone disease.
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): Elevated GGT levels can be associated with liver or bile duct
Total Protein Levels:
Low protein levels may suggest suboptimal liver function because the liver produces proteins1.
Bilirubin Levels:
Bilirubin is a waste product that the liver excretes into bile. Elevated bilirubin levels can indicate liver dysfunction.
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH):
LDH is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver. Abnormal LDH levels may signal liver damage.
Prothrombin Time (PT):
PT measures how long it takes for your blood to clot. Liver-produced proteins play a role in this process.
What is considered normal LFT blood test results?
Common LFTs and Normal Ranges (These can vary slightly between labs):
ALT (Alanine aminotransferase): 7-55 units per liter (U/L)
AST (Aspartate aminotransferase): 8-48 U/L
ALP (Alkaline phosphatase): 40-129 U/L
GGT (Gamma-glutamyl transferase): 8-61 U/L
Albumin: 3.5-5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL)
Total bilirubin: 0.1-1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)
Understanding LFT Normal Ranges:
These ranges provide a guideline, and some individuals might naturally have slightly higher or lower values without indicating a problem.
A doctor considers your medical history, symptoms (if any), and the specific lab's reference range for a complete picture.
LFTs measure various aspects of liver function. A doctor analyzes all tests together to identify any abnormal patterns.
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