What diseases can be detected by the three liver function tests?

Generally, the term "liver function tests (LFTs) three items" refers to a set of commonly used blood tests, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and total bilirubin, which can be used to assess liver function and health. The LFTs three items can detect diseases such as alcoholic liver disease, fatty liver, viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcoholic liver disease is caused by long-term heavy alcohol consumption leading to liver damage. In LFTs, aspartate aminotransferase levels are usually higher than alanine aminotransferase levels, with an AST/ALT ratio greater than 2. Patients often experience symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, and hepatomegaly (enlarged liver).

2. Fatty Liver

Fatty liver is caused by metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, resulting in fat accumulation in the liver. In LFTs, both ALT and AST levels may be mildly to moderately elevated, with an AST/ALT ratio close to 1. Most patients are asymptomatic, although some may experience fatigue or discomfort in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen.

3. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis may be caused by infection with hepatitis viruses, leading to liver inflammation. In LFTs, both ALT and AST levels are significantly elevated, with ALT showing a more pronounced increase. Total bilirubin levels may also be elevated, particularly in cases of jaundice-type hepatitis, which presents with yellowing of the skin and eyes. Common symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

4. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is an end-stage liver disease that may develop from long-standing chronic liver conditions. In LFTs, ALT and AST levels may be mildly to moderately elevated, while total bilirubin levels may increase, particularly indirect bilirubin. Symptoms often include fatigue, abdominal distension, ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen), jaundice, spider angiomas, and palmar erythema (redness of the palms).

5. Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is a malignant tumor arising from liver cells or bile duct cells. In LFTs, ALT and AST levels may be mildly to moderately elevated. Total bilirubin levels may also rise, especially in advanced liver cancer. Common symptoms include abdominal pain and distension, jaundice, weight loss, and hepatomegaly.

It is recommended to maintain regular作息 and dietary habits, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and refrain from strenuous exercise and overexertion to support liver health.