Get an Accurate Diagnosis & Specialised Treatment For Your Condition Today
Consult our dual fellowship-trained surgeon for a personalised treatment plan today.
MBBS
MMed
MRCS (IRE)
FRCSED
FAMS
Liver function tests (LFTs) are blood tests used to assess the health of the liver by measuring levels of liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the blood. These tests help in detecting liver damage or disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease. LFTs are important for diagnosing liver conditions, monitoring the progression of diseases, and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments.
Liver function tests encompass a variety of blood tests used to diagnose and monitor liver health. Here are some of the most commonly used tests:
Preparing adequately for liver function tests is important to ensure accurate results. Here are the steps generally recommended:
Most liver function tests require fasting for 8-12 hours before the test. This means no food or drink, except water, should be consumed during this fasting period.
Inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal treatments you are taking. Some substances can affect liver enzyme levels and may need to be paused or adjusted before the test.
Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking for at least 24 hours before the test, as these can significantly influence liver function results.
Avoid heavy physical activities the day before the test, as vigorous exercises can also affect test outcomes.
The procedure for conducting liver function tests is straightforward and typically involves the following steps:
Liver function tests are usually scheduled in advance, and you will likely be advised to arrive in a fasted state.
During the visit, the doctor will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. This process is quick, usually taking only a few minutes.
The collected blood sample is then properly labelled and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
The time to receive results can vary but generally takes a few days. Some clinics may offer same-day results for certain tests.
Once the results are available, the doctor will review them with you. Depending on the outcomes, further testing or treatment may be recommended.
Consult our dual fellowship-trained surgeon for a personalised treatment plan today.
Liver function tests can help identify a range of liver conditions. Some of the most commonly detected issues include:
Viral infections that cause inflammation of the liver, affecting its function.
Long-term damage to the liver that results in scarring and impaired liver function.
Accumulation of fat in liver cells, which can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic in origin.
Blockages in the tubes that carry bile from the liver, which can cause elevated enzyme levels.
Malignant tumours in the liver can be identified by abnormal liver enzyme levels in some cases.
Conditions where the immune system attacks liver cells, such as autoimmune hepatitis.
MBBS (SG)
MMed (Surg)
MRCS (Ire)
FRCSEd (Gen)
FAMS (Surg)
Dr Thng Yongxian is a dual fellowship-trained Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon who has performed over 6000 surgical procedures.
He pursued his subspecialty training in Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery first in the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Singapore General Hospital. Following this, he completed a clinical fellowship in Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Seoul National University Hospital in Bundang, South Korea.
Dr Thng set up and pioneered the Minimally invasive surgery program for his hospital in complex liver and pancreas cases. His surgeries were featured on live national television. His surgical videos have also been presented at international surgical conferences. He also pioneered the use of capsule colonoscopy for colorectal screening.
Dr Thng has served on various committees at hospital, cluster and ministry level. Dr Thng served as a member of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy Clinician workgroup for value-driven care (VDC).
Navigating the financial aspects of healthcare can be overwhelming. Allow us to assist you with your insurance claims, enabling you to concentrate on recovery & getting well. Our friendly clinic staff is here to answer any questions you have about insurance or payment options.
Please leave us a message and we will be in touch with you shortly.
820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
3 Mount Elizabeth, #08-06, Singapore 228510
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
38 Irrawaddy Road, #08-43, Singapore 329563
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
319 Joo Chiat Place, #05-01, Singapore 427989
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday, Sunday & PH: Closed
820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
Abnormal results may indicate liver damage or disease, but they do not pinpoint the specific cause. Further diagnostic testing is often necessary to determine the underlying issue.
The tests involve drawing blood, which can cause brief discomfort similar to any blood test. However, there are no prolonged painful sensations associated with liver function tests.
The frequency depends on individual health conditions and risk factors. Your doctor will recommend testing based on your specific circumstances.
You should inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some may need to be temporarily discontinued before the test to avoid affecting the results.
Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and following medical advice for managing health conditions can all contribute to better liver health.