Private Liver Function Test LFT
If you are experiencing tiredness, abdominal discomfort, unexplained itching, or simply want reassurance about your liver health, a liver function test can help determine whether further investigation is needed. Every LFT begins with a consultation with Dr Faizal Secretary.
GP-led · Results explained in person · No referral needed
What is a liver function test?
A liver function test (LFT) is a blood test used to assess the health of your liver. It measures a number of proteins, enzymes, and other substances in your blood that can point to liver cell damage, inflammation, or other liver-related issues.
Despite the name, an LFT does not directly measure how well the liver is working. Instead, it provides useful information about liver health that is interpreted alongside your symptoms, medical history, and other results. Because the liver carries out hundreds of vital tasks, changes in these blood markers help determine whether further investigation is needed.
Reviewed by Dr Faizal Secretary, MRCGP · GMC 7606534
When would a liver function test be necessary?
A liver function test may be advised if you have symptoms that could suggest a liver issue, or if your liver health needs monitoring because of an existing condition or treatment. In the early stages, many liver conditions cause few or no symptoms. Dr Faizal may suggest an LFT if you are experiencing:
- Persistent tiredness or exhaustion
- Loss of appetite or nausea
- Upper right abdominal pain or discomfort
- Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Unexplained itching
- Frequent or heavy alcohol intake
- Monitoring a known liver condition or previous abnormal liver blood tests
Having these symptoms does not mean you have liver disease, as many can be caused by other conditions. A consultation with a GP can help establish whether a liver function test, further blood tests, or scans are the best next step.
What is measured by a liver function test?
A liver function test assesses your liver's health by measuring a number of markers. Your test may include:
| Marker | What it helps assess |
|---|---|
| ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) | An enzyme that may rise in response to inflammation or injury to the liver cells. |
| AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) | Also found in muscle and other tissues, this enzyme can be a marker of liver cell damage. |
| ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) | May point to bile duct issues or, in some cases, bone-related conditions. |
| GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) | Often used alongside other liver tests and can be raised by bile duct problems or regular alcohol use. |
| Bilirubin | A yellow pigment the liver breaks down. High levels can cause jaundice. |
| Albumin | A protein made by the liver that helps assess how well the liver is carrying out some of its vital tasks. |
A single abnormal result does not usually give a diagnosis on its own. Dr Faizal considers all of the findings alongside your symptoms and medical history before deciding whether any further testing is required.
Getting ready for your liver function test
For most people, preparing for a liver function test is straightforward. Unless you are having other blood tests that require fasting, you can usually eat and drink normally beforehand. Before your appointment, let Dr Faizal know about:
- Any prescription or over-the-counter medicines you take
- Herbal supplements
- Regular alcohol intake
- Any recent illness
- Any previous abnormal liver blood tests
Sharing this information helps Dr Faizal interpret your results accurately, in line with NHS guidance on liver blood tests.
What happens after your results?
Getting your results is just one step. Understanding what they mean is equally important. As soon as your results are available, Dr Faizal explains them and goes over the next steps. Depending on your results, he may recommend:
- Reassurance if your results are within the expected range
- A repeat or further blood test to look into a borderline or abnormal result
- Lifestyle guidance where appropriate
- Treatment, or a referral to a specialist, when necessary
Mildly abnormal liver blood tests do not necessarily indicate serious liver disease. Your results are always interpreted alongside your symptoms and medical history.
Liver function testing: private vs NHS
Both private and NHS liver function tests use accredited laboratories and follow the same clinical guidelines. The main differences are usually the speed of access, the length of your consultation, and the level of personalised follow-up.
| Private Liver Function Testing | NHS Liver Function Testing |
|---|---|
| GP consultation before testing | In most cases your NHS GP makes the request |
| Tests suggested based on your symptoms and medical history | Investigations arranged according to NHS clinical guidelines |
| Faster appointments in many cases | Waiting times vary between practices |
| Results explained personally by Dr Faizal Secretary | Follow-up depends on your GP practice |
| Ongoing care, monitoring, and specialist referral if required | Ongoing care through the NHS referral pathway |
| Does not require NHS GP registration | NHS GP registration is required |
Many patients choose to use both NHS and private healthcare. A private consultation can provide quicker access to investigations while you remain fully registered with your NHS GP.
Why get a liver function test at My Private Clinic?
Choosing where to have your liver function test is about more than booking a blood test. It is about getting the right investigation, interpreting the results correctly, and knowing what to do if further care is needed.
GP-Led Evaluation
Investigations suggested based on your clinical assessment, medical history, and symptoms.
Personalised Testing
Additional blood tests are arranged only where clinically necessary.
Explained in Clear Terms
Dr Faizal Secretary reviews and explains your results personally.
Quick Access
Same-day and next-day appointments are frequently available.
Continued Care
Monitoring, treatment, and specialist referrals are arranged when needed.
Meet Dr Faizal Secretary
Dr Faizal Secretary holds a medical degree from the University of Manchester and has extensive experience across NHS general practice and acute medicine. He founded My Private Clinic to give patients extended appointments, individualised care, and clear explanations, so every patient understands their results and options.
"Good healthcare starts with listening properly."
Dr Faizal Secretary, MBChB MRCGP · Read the full clinical profile →
Pricing
There are no hidden costs, membership fees, or registration fees. The cost of your private liver function test depends on the investigations suggested during your consultation, and all costs are discussed before any blood tests are arranged.
Frequently asked questions
What is a liver function test?
A liver function test (LFT) is a blood test that evaluates the health of the liver by measuring proteins, bilirubin, and liver enzymes. The results help determine whether the liver is working normally or whether further investigation is required.
Do I need a GP referral for a private liver function test?
No. You can arrange a private liver function test without a referral. A GP consultation is advised first to make sure the test is suitable for your symptoms and medical history.
Do I need to fast before a liver function test?
No. Most liver function tests do not require fasting, so you can usually eat and drink normally, unless additional blood tests require different preparation.
How quickly will I receive my results?
Most liver function test results are available within a few working days.
What does it mean if my liver function test is abnormal?
An abnormal liver function test does not usually mean liver disease. Medication, alcohol, fatty liver disease, and a temporary illness can all raise liver enzymes. Further assessment may be needed to identify the cause.
Can a liver function test detect fatty liver?
A liver function test may suggest fatty liver disease if liver enzymes are raised, but it cannot confirm the diagnosis on its own. Confirmation usually requires a clinical assessment and an ultrasound scan.
Related blood test services
Wider checks & services
Book a private liver function test consultation
If you have symptoms that could be linked to a liver problem, or you would simply like reassurance about your liver health, Dr Faizal Secretary can recommend the right investigations, explain your results clearly, and advise on any further care or referral.