Understanding your Liver Function Tests (LFT) results
Liver function tests are a group of blood markers that each reflect a different part of liver health. ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) are enzymes released when liver cells are injured; ALT is more specific to the liver, while AST also rises with heart and muscle injury. ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) tend to rise when bile flow is blocked. Bilirubin, a yellow pigment from the breakdown of haemoglobin, rises when the liver cannot process or excrete it, which causes jaundice. Albumin and total protein reflect how well the liver makes proteins.
The ranges on this page are commonly quoted adult reference ranges. Laboratories set their own, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges
>>>| Parameter | Reference range | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| ALT (alanine aminotransferase) | 7–56 | U/L | The most liver-specific enzyme |
| AST (aspartate aminotransferase) | 10–40 | U/L | Found in liver and muscle |
| ALP (alkaline phosphatase) | 44–147 | U/L | Found in bile ducts and bone |
| GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) | 0–51 | U/L | |
| Bilirubin, total | 0.1–1.2 | mg/dL | Yellow pigment |
| Albumin | 3.4–5.4 | g/dL | Protein made by the liver |
What a high Liver Function Tests (LFT) result can mean
Mildly raised ALT and AST are often seen with fatty liver disease. Other causes include viral hepatitis B or C, alcohol-related liver disease, some medicines and autoimmune hepatitis. Raised ALP and GGT with normal ALT and AST can point to a problem with bile flow, such as gallstones. Raised bilirubin causes yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).
What a low Liver Function Tests (LFT) result can mean
Low albumin can mean the liver is making less protein than usual, as in long-term liver disease. It can also be low with poor nutrition or when protein is lost through the gut or kidneys.
How a doctor reads the result
A doctor will usually interpret liver tests as a pattern, alongside your symptoms, alcohol intake, weight and any medicines or supplements you take. Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools or pain under the right ribs are details a doctor will want to hear about promptly. Discuss the result with your doctor.
Follow-up a doctor may arrange
After raised liver enzymes, a doctor may repeat the tests and may order a liver ultrasound, hepatitis B and C tests, autoimmune markers or ferritin. Some people are referred to a liver specialist (hepatologist) or a gastroenterologist.
Related tests
>>>Liver Function Test (LFT): preparation and listed prices
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood. The LFT test is listed at AED 100 to AED 155 across 3 labs and services: AED 100 on the Healthchecks360 website, AED 100 on the Smart Care Polyclinic website (Dubai only) and AED 155 on the Unilabs website.
Sources: Prices on this page are the ones each lab or service publishes on its own website, read between 13 October 2026 and 7 November 2026. Zavis has published prices from 6 of the 13 labs and services it lists: of the other 7, 6 do not publish per-test prices and 1 website could not be read. The websites do not all say whether VAT or a collection fee is added to a listed price, so confirm the price with the lab before you book. How Zavis sources prices.
Listed prices for the LFT test, as each site names itFrequently asked questions
What are the commonly quoted reference ranges for Liver Function Tests (LFT)?
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges are: ALT (alanine aminotransferase): 7–56 U/L; AST (aspartate aminotransferase): 10–40 U/L; ALP (alkaline phosphatase): 44–147 U/L; GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase): 0–51 U/L; Bilirubin, total: 0.1–1.2 mg/dL; Albumin: 3.4–5.4 g/dL. Laboratories set their own ranges, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
What can a high Liver Function Tests (LFT) result mean?
Mildly raised ALT and AST are often seen with fatty liver disease. Other causes include viral hepatitis B or C, alcohol-related liver disease, some medicines and autoimmune hepatitis. Raised ALP and GGT with normal ALT and AST can point to a problem with bile flow, such as gallstones. Raised bilirubin causes yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).
Is fasting needed for Liver Function Tests (LFT)?
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
How often are Liver Function Tests (LFT) results rechecked?
There is no single interval that suits everyone. A doctor can advise whether and how often to test, based on your health, any treatment and your earlier results.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your full clinical picture, symptoms, and medical history. If you have concerns about your test results, always consult a licensed healthcare professional. Do not delay seeking medical advice or disregard professional medical guidance because of information on this page.