LFTs (liver function tests)
Formal Definition
A panel of blood tests assessing liver health: AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin, albumin, total protein. Note: only albumin and PT/INR truly reflect synthetic function.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Check the LFTs" — ordered to assess liver disease, drug toxicity, or biliary obstruction.
Example
""Patient on isoniazid for latent TB — check LFTs at baseline and monthly. If transaminases go above 3x normal, hold the medication and reassess.""
Clinical Context
The term "liver function tests" is a misnomer — most of the panel (AST, ALT) reflects liver damage, not function. Albumin and PT/INR actually test synthetic function. Know the difference when interpreting results.
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