Liver Function Test

A liver function test is carried out with a blood test that measures several key proteins and enzymes to assess how well your liver is working. These include:

• alanine transaminase: an enzyme that helps convert proteins into energy for liver cells

• aspartate transaminase (AST): breaks down amino acids in the body – elevated levels can signal liver damage or disease

• alkaline phosphatase (ALP): found in the liver and bones, this enzyme helps break down proteins – raised levels may suggest liver damage or disease

• albumin and total protein: albumin is produced by the liver – low levels of albumin or total protein may point to liver damage or disease

• bilirubin: a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, normally cleared by the liver – elevated levels may indicate liver dysfunction

• gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT): an enzyme that when elevate,d may signal liver or bio duct damage

• L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD): high quantities may be a marker of liver damage

• prothrombin time (PT): measures how long it takes blood to clot – a prolonged PT can indicate impaired liver function

In addition to blood tests, a FibroScan may also be recommended. This is a quick, painless, and non-invasive scan that takes around 10 minutes. Using a handheld probe it provides valuable insights into your liver health and function.

If your liver function test indicates that you may have liver damage or disease, further tests may be recommended to determine which type you have. That way, the right treatment can be provided.

Some of the most commonly detected liver conditions can include:

• alcohol-related liver disease

• non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

• hepatitis

• scarring of the liver (cirrhosis)

• haemochromatosis

• primary biliary cholangitis

It’s important to remember that abnormal results do not always mean liver disease. At Welbeck, our consultants will carefully explain your results and what they mean for your health. They will also devise a personalised plan should you require any treatment.

A liver function test is safe and routine, but like any blood test, a few minor side effects may include:

• slight pain or discomfort

• mild bruising

• feeling lightheaded

• infection (rare)

Before your test, you may be told not to eat or drink anything except water. We also recommend wearing a top with sleeves that can be rolled up easily so your arm can be accessed easily for the blood draw.

There is no aftercare needed and you can return to your normal activities straight away after a liver function test. Some people may notice light bruising, tenderness, or a small mark where the needle was inserted, but this usually settles within a day or so. 

Your consultant will arrange a follow-up to review your results with you and provide any recommendations

Please contact our Digestive Health centre for pricing

At Welbeck, our digestive health specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a liver function test, you must be referred by either your GP or a consultant gastroenterologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a digestive health specialist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.