Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Liver function tests measure key enzymes and proteins in your blood. Results outside the normal range-called -abnormal LFTs--suggest your liver may be under stress or not working properly. Early detection allows for timely evaluation and treatment.
He reviews your full health history, including alcohol intake, medication use, metabolic risk factors (diabetes, obesity), and any family history of liver disease. A focused abdominal exam looks for signs of liver enlargement or fluid buildup.
We draw a comprehensive LFT panel (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, albumin) and may add viral hepatitis serologies (A, B, C), autoimmune markers, and iron studies to pinpoint the cause of enzyme elevation.
When noninvasive tests are inconclusive, a percutaneous liver biopsy may be performed to confirm diagnosis, assess fibrosis stage, or guide targeted therapy.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 5.2K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
These are blood tests that check how well your liver is working by measuring liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin.
Common causes include fatty liver, hepatitis, alcohol use, medications, autoimmune conditions, or bile duct issues.
Yes. Many people have no symptoms. Abnormal LFTs are often discovered during routine blood work or screening.
Fasting is not usually needed, but your doctor may ask you to fast if other tests are ordered with it.
Treatment depends on the cause. It may involve stopping certain medications, lifestyle changes, or further testing.
Yes. With the right care and by treating the underlying issue, liver enzymes often return to normal ranges.
You may need imaging tests like ultrasound or FibroScan, hepatitis panels, or additional blood work.
A single mild elevation may not be serious. Your provider will track trends over time to decide if further action is needed.
If liver tests remain abnormal or symptoms develop, it's a good idea to consult a gastroenterologist or hepatologist.
Yes. Some medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers and supplements, can impact liver enzymes.
