Treatment for elevated Liver Function Tests (LFTs) isn't a singular approach; it depends entirely on the underlying cause of the elevated levels. LFTs themselves are not a disease but rather indicators of liver health. High LFTs signal a problem, and treatment focuses on addressing that root cause.
Understanding Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a panel of blood tests that assess the health of your liver. Abnormal results indicate potential liver damage or disease. The treatment isn't for the LFTs themselves, but for the condition causing the abnormal results.
Treatment Approaches Based on Underlying Causes
Treatment for conditions resulting in elevated LFTs varies greatly:
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Lifestyle Changes: For some liver problems, such as those related to alcohol consumption or obesity, lifestyle modifications are crucial. This might involve weight loss, abstaining from alcohol, and adopting a healthier diet. These changes are often part of a broader medical program monitoring liver function. [Source: Mayo Clinic, Feb 13, 2024]
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Medications: Certain liver diseases require medication. For instance, the FDA recently approved the first medication for treating noncirrhotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with moderate to severe liver scarring. [Source: FDA, Mar 14, 2024] Other medications might target specific conditions causing liver inflammation or damage. [Source: Drug treatment of pruritus in liver diseases]
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Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary, particularly if there are complications such as liver cysts or tumors. [Source: Liver Cysts: Hepatic Cysts Symptoms, Causes & Treatments] Liver metastases (cancer spread to the liver) often require treatment specific to the original cancer type. [Source: Canadian Cancer Society]
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Managing Underlying Conditions: Treatment also includes addressing underlying conditions contributing to elevated LFTs. This might include managing viral hepatitis, autoimmune diseases, or drug-induced liver injury. For drug-induced liver injury, discontinuing the offending medication is often the first step. [Source: MedlinePlus - Drug-induced liver injury]
Examples of Causes and Treatments
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Weight loss, diet changes, and possibly medication.
- Alcoholic liver disease: Abstinence from alcohol, lifestyle changes, and medication.
- Viral hepatitis: Antiviral medications.
- Autoimmune hepatitis: Immunosuppressant medications.
- Drug-induced liver injury: Discontinuing the offending medication.
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. They will order appropriate tests, determine the cause of elevated LFTs, and recommend the best course of action.
