Liver Function Tests - Extended (LFT + HBsAg & PT)

The Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test is a blood test that identifies the presence of HBsAg, a protein found on the surface of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). If positive, it signifies an active hepatitis B infection.

Prothrombin Time measures how long it takes for your blood to clot, indicating the health of your liver and your blood's clotting ability.

Abnormal results could indicate liver damage or disease, hepatitis B infection, or issues with blood clotting. Your healthcare provider should interpret specific results in the context of your overall health and other test results.

The test requires a simple blood draw, typically from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

The risks associated with a blood draw are minimal but may include slight pain or bruising at the injection site, fainting, or infection.

Generally, no special preparation is necessary before having an Extended Liver Function Test. It is recommended to continue with your regular diet and medications unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Yes, this test can help monitor the progression of liver diseases and the efficacy of treatments. Regular testing can provide essential information about the health of your liver over time.

If your results are abnormal, you should consult your healthcare provider who will discuss the potential implications and the next steps, which may involve further testing or initiation of a treatment plan.

Yes, treatment options depend on the specific type and stage of the liver disease. They may include lifestyle changes, medication, or, in severe cases, liver transplantation.

Many types of liver disease can be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, practicing safe sex, and avoiding alcohol and recreational drug abuse.

Some liver diseases, like Wilson's disease or hemochromatosis, have a genetic component. However, many common liver diseases, including viral hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease, are not inherited.

The liver is responsible for the production of many different proteins that have various functions, including blood clotting, transporting substances in the blood, and fighting infection.

Liver disease can be serious and, in some cases, life-threatening if it leads to complications such as liver failure or liver cancer. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing liver disease effectively.

The frequency of testing depends on your individual risk factors, overall health, and whether you're being monitored for a specific liver condition. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how often you should be tested.

Yes, the liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate and repair itself. However, continuous damage and scarring over time, often due to conditions like chronic hepatitis or alcohol misuse, can limit this capacity, leading to severe liver disease.

The Extended Liver Function Test can provide indicators of liver health and function but is not specifically designed to diagnose liver cancer. However, significantly abnormal results could prompt further investigations, including imaging studies or a liver biopsy, which can help diagnose liver cancer.

While some people may experience a quick pinch or slight discomfort when the needle is inserted during the blood draw, the test is generally not considered painful.

Excessive alcohol consumption over a prolonged period can cause significant damage to the liver, leading to conditions like alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

Yes, risk factors for liver disease include a family history of liver disease, long-term alcohol abuse, exposure to certain toxins or chemicals, chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, and infections such as hepatitis B or C.

You can maintain liver health by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, avoiding illicit drug use, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.

Yes, advanced liver disease can affect other parts of your body. For example, it can cause complications like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), ascites (fluid build-up in the abdomen), varices (enlarged veins), and hepatic encephalopathy (brain function decline).

The Extended Liver Function Test is generally very accurate and reliable in assessing liver function and identifying hepatitis B infection. However, no test is 100% accurate, and results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical information.

Yes, unless your healthcare provider instructs otherwise, you should continue to take your regular medications before the test.

There are other tests for liver function, but the Extended Liver Function Test provides a comprehensive evaluation. Other tests like imaging studies, liver biopsy, or specific genetic tests may be used alongside it depending on the suspected condition.