Liver function test
A private liver function blood test to check liver enzymes, bilirubin and protein markers that can change with liver or bile-duct irritation.
Book a GP blood test appointment if you have symptoms, abnormal previous results, medication concerns or want your liver markers interpreted in context.
Test options
Liver function blood test
Use the options below if you already know which test you need. If you are unsure, book a GP blood test appointment and your GP can advise.
Kidney and liver function
Glucose, triglycerides & cholesterol
Red cells, white cells, platelets, haemoglobin
Haematocrit, mean cell volume, mean haemoglobin
Kidney and liver function
Glucose, triglycerides & cholesterol
Liver Fibrosis (Enhanced Liver Fibrosis ELF)
Liver Fibrosis Fibrotest
Bilirubin (Total)
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) (SGPT)
Aspartate Transaminase (AST) (SGOT)
Total Protein
Alkaline Phosphatase
Albumin
Globulin
Gamma GT
From booking to results
Your appointment, step by step
Book online, see a GP, have your sample taken during the appointment and view your results securely in your DocTap account.
- 1Book online in minutesChoose your preferred clinic and time, and select a male or female clinician where available. You will get instant confirmation.
- 2We will tell you how to prepareMost blood tests do not need fasting. If a test needs anything specific beforehand, we will let you know before your appointment.
- 3See a GP and have your sample takenYour appointment includes a 15-minute GP consultation to discuss symptoms, check suitability or advise which test you need. A quick blood sample is then taken from your arm.
- 4Get results and follow-upYou will get a message when your result is ready. Your results and doctor's report will be available securely in your DocTap account; abnormal results are prioritised and your clinician will contact you if urgent action is needed.
What it can show
What liver function tests actually show
Liver blood tests look at patterns in enzymes and proteins, not just whether the liver is “fine” or “not fine”.
Enzymes and function markers
A liver function test may include enzymes such as ALT, ALP and GGT, plus markers such as bilirubin, albumin and total protein. Some markers suggest liver-cell irritation, while others relate more to bile flow or the liver’s protein-making role.
The pattern matters
One raised marker rarely tells the whole story. For example, a pattern involving GGT and ALP can suggest a different route of investigation from a pattern mainly involving ALT. Your GP will look at the combination, not just the highest number.
It does not always identify the cause
Liver markers can change with alcohol, weight and metabolic health, viral illness, medication, supplements, bile-flow issues and other conditions. Abnormal results often need a careful history and sometimes repeat or additional tests.
When to test
When liver markers are worth checking
A liver function test is useful when symptoms, medication or previous results make the liver part of the question.
Symptoms that need context
Testing may be useful if you have yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, unexplained itching, right-sided abdominal pain, nausea or feeling generally unwell. These symptoms should be discussed with a clinician rather than checked in isolation.
Alcohol, weight or metabolic risk
Liver markers are often reviewed where alcohol intake, weight change, diabetes risk, cholesterol issues or suspected fatty liver may be relevant. The result can help decide whether lifestyle changes, repeat testing or imaging should be considered.
Medication or previous abnormal results
Some medicines and supplements can affect liver markers. Testing can also be useful for following up a previous abnormal result to see whether it has settled, persisted or changed pattern.
Results
What abnormal liver results can mean
Abnormal liver markers are common, but they deserve proper interpretation rather than panic or dismissal.
Mild changes can be temporary
A mild abnormal result can happen after recent illness, alcohol, medication changes, hard exercise or other short-term factors. Your GP may suggest repeating the test before jumping to more invasive investigations.
Next steps depend on the pattern
Depending on the result, your GP may recommend hepatitis testing, ferritin, cholesterol, HbA1c, an ultrasound, medication review or repeat liver tests. The right next step depends on the pattern and your personal risk factors.
Before your appointment
You usually do not need to fast for liver function tests alone, unless they are combined with other tests that require it. Bring a list of medicines, supplements and recent alcohol intake, because these can affect interpretation.
Clinical quality
The standards behind every test
The clinical standards behind every DocTap blood test, across our London clinics.
- CQC rated ‘Good’.
- Independently inspected and regulated by the Care Quality Commission.
- Fully GMC-registered doctors.
- UK-trained and experienced GPs only.
- Every consultation reviewed.
- Each one is checked for quality and safety, overseen by our Medical Director.
- No sales incentives.
- Our GPs are never paid commissions for tests or treatments.
Ready to book?
Book a GP blood test appointment, or compare prices for other blood tests.
11 locations where we test
DocTap London clinics and on-site laboratories
Canary Wharf
Situated by South Quay Footbridge, a 3-minute walk from Canary Wharf and Heron Quays stations.
Hammersmith
Situated on King Street, a 6-minute walk from Hammersmith underground stations.
Kings Cross & Euston
Located just off Euston Road, less than a 10-minute walk from both Euston and King’s Cross stations.
Liverpool Street & Bank
Located in the heart of the City, a 5-minute walk from Liverpool Street and Bank stations.
London Bridge
Located just off Borough High Street, an 8-minute walk from London Bridge station.
Bond Street
Located on Wigmore Street, just off Harley Street, a 7-minute walk from Bond Street station.
Clapham
Located on Clapham High Street, only a 3-minute walk from Clapham Common station.
Old Street
Located off Old Street, a 3-minute walk from Old Street underground station.
Stratford
Located within The Conductor building, a 6-minute walk from Stratford station, or 3 minutes from the Westfield shopping centre.
Swiss Cottage
Only a 3-minute walk from Swiss Cottage station.
Victoria
Situated on Lower Belgrave Street, a 5-minute walk from Victoria rail and underground stations.
Online GP
Speak to a GP by video or phone, wherever you are — no app needed. Ideal for follow-ups and straightforward concerns.