Understanding Your Liver Function Tests (LFT) Results
Liver function tests are a panel of blood markers assessing different aspects 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, AST also rises in heart and muscle injury. ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) are elevated in bile duct obstruction and fatty liver disease. Bilirubin (the yellow pigment from haemoglobin breakdown) rises when liver processing or bile outflow is impaired, causing jaundice. Albumin and total protein reflect the liver's protein synthesis capacity — reduced in chronic liver failure.
Normal Reference Ranges
>>>| Parameter | Normal Range | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) | 7–56 | U/L | Most liver-specific enzyme |
| AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) | 10–40 | U/L | Liver and muscle enzyme |
| ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) | 44–147 | U/L | Bile duct and bone |
| GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) | 0–51 | U/L | Elevated with alcohol, fatty liver |
| Bilirubin (total) | 0.1–1.2 | mg/dL | Yellow pigment; jaundice above 2.5 |
| Albumin | 3.4–5.4 | g/dL | Liver synthetic function marker |
Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Always compare your result to the range printed on your specific lab report.
What High Liver Function Tests (LFT) Results Mean
Mildly elevated ALT and AST (up to 3x the upper limit of normal) are most commonly caused by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which affects an estimated 30–40% of UAE adults. Other causes include viral hepatitis B or C, alcohol-related liver disease, medication hepatotoxicity (paracetamol overdose, statins, antifungals, anti-TB drugs), and autoimmune hepatitis. ALT more than 10x the upper limit suggests acute hepatocellular injury — viral hepatitis, ischaemic hepatitis, or drug-induced liver injury. Isolated ALP and GGT elevation with normal ALT/AST points to bile duct obstruction (gallstones, cholangitis) or infiltrative liver disease. Elevated bilirubin with elevated transaminases indicates hepatocellular jaundice.
What Low Liver Function Tests (LFT) Results Mean
Low albumin (below 3.4 g/dL) is a significant finding indicating impaired liver synthetic function, as seen in cirrhosis or severe chronic liver disease. It can also be reduced in malnutrition, protein-losing enteropathy, or nephrotic syndrome. Very low ALP can occasionally be seen in hypothyroidism or zinc deficiency.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor promptly if ALT or AST exceed 3x normal (above approximately 170 U/L), if bilirubin rises above 2.5 mg/dL (causing visible yellowing of the skin or eyes), if albumin falls below 3.0 g/dL, or if you develop right upper abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, or unexplained weight loss alongside abnormal LFTs. Any jaundice in a previously well person is a medical emergency requiring same-day evaluation. Hepatitis B surface antigen testing should accompany LFTs in anyone with elevated transaminases without an obvious cause.
UAE Health Context
NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) is the most prevalent liver condition in the UAE, directly driven by the high rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes. UAE studies report NAFLD in 25–40% of adults on ultrasound screening. Hepatitis B prevalence in South Asian and African expat populations is higher than in the general UAE population — Hepatitis B surface antigen testing is part of the UAE visa medical, but many adult expats who arrived before widespread vaccination carry chronic infection. Alcohol-related liver disease, while legally restricted in the UAE, is diagnosed in a proportion of the expat population accessing private healthcare.
What to Do Next
For mildly elevated ALT (up to 2x normal): a repeat LFT after 3 months with lifestyle modification (weight loss, reduced sugar and refined carbohydrates, alcohol reduction) is a reasonable first step. If persistently elevated, your doctor will likely order a liver ultrasound, hepatitis B and C serology, autoimmune markers, and a ferritin level. Significant elevation requires specialist gastroenterology or hepatology referral. Avoid hepatotoxic medications, high-dose paracetamol, and herbal remedies (many can be hepatotoxic) while awaiting investigation.
Related Tests Often Ordered Together
>>>Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal Liver Function Tests (LFT) level?
Normal Liver Function Tests (LFT) ranges vary by parameter. 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. Always compare your results against the reference range on your specific lab report, as ranges can vary slightly between laboratories.
What causes high Liver Function Tests (LFT)?
Mildly elevated ALT and AST (up to 3x the upper limit of normal) are most commonly caused by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which affects an estimated 30–40% of UAE adults. Other causes include viral hepatitis B or C, alcohol-related liver disease, medication hepatotoxicity (paracetamol overdose, statins, antifungals, anti-TB drugs), and autoimmune hepatitis. ALT more than 10x the upper limit suggests acute hepatocellular injury — viral hepatitis, ischaemic hepatitis, or drug-induced liver injury. Isolated ALP and GGT elevation with normal ALT/AST points to bile duct obstruction (gallstones, cholangitis) or infiltrative liver disease. Elevated bilirubin with elevated transaminases indicates hepatocellular jaundice.
Do I need to fast before a Liver Function Tests (LFT) test?
No, fasting is not required for this test. It can be done at any time of day without dietary restrictions.
How often should I get a Liver Function Tests (LFT) test?
Annually as part of routine health screening. Every 3–6 months if managing liver disease or on hepatotoxic medications.
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.