A liver function test measures enzymes and proteins that show how well the liver is working and whether it is inflamed or damaged.
Why this test is done
- Investigate jaundice, abdominal pain, unexplained tiredness or nausea
- Monitor known liver conditions such as fatty liver or hepatitis
- Check for effects of medicines or alcohol on the liver
How to prepare
- Some laboratories ask for 8 to 12 hours of fasting; follow your own instruction
- Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test
- Tell your doctor about all medicines, including painkillers, supplements and traditional remedies
Understanding your results
- SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) are liver enzymes; raised levels suggest liver cells are inflamed or damaged
- Bilirubin causes the yellow colour in jaundice when it builds up
- Albumin and prothrombin time reflect how well the liver is performing its manufacturing work
- Mildly raised enzymes are common — fatty liver is a frequent cause — and are interpreted together with your history and a scan if needed
Read your report with your doctor
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, and a value slightly outside the range is often normal for you. What matters is the pattern across your results, your symptoms and your history — which is why the report belongs in a consultation, not a search box.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a raised SGPT mean?
It indicates some irritation or damage to liver cells. Common causes include fatty liver, alcohol, viral hepatitis and certain medicines. A mildly raised level is common and usually needs repeat testing and assessment rather than immediate alarm.
Do I need to fast for a liver function test?
Some laboratories ask for 8 to 12 hours of fasting and some do not, so follow your own instruction. Either way, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test.
What does high bilirubin mean?
Bilirubin is what causes the yellow colour in jaundice when it builds up. A raised level is interpreted alongside the liver enzymes and your symptoms, since the causes range from harmless inherited variations to conditions that need treatment.
What this costs, and what is free
Routine blood tests are generally free at government hospitals and health and wellness centres when ordered there.
Private lab prices for the same test vary widely between cities and between labs in the same city. It is worth asking the price before agreeing, and worth asking your doctor which tests are genuinely needed rather than accepting a bundled package.
Source: Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, National Health Authority
Prices and scheme rules change. Confirm current details with the hospital or Kendra before you rely on them.