Liver Function Tests
A detailed assessment of liver enzymes to detect inflammation, damage, or metabolic issues. Useful if you drink alcohol, take regular medication, or experience digestive or fatigue symptoms. Supports long-term liver health.
- Description
- Why This Test?
- Associated Conditions
- Uses of This Test
The Liver Function Test (LFT) is a blood test that assesses key enzymes and proteins produced or processed by the liver. The liver plays a central role in digestion, metabolism, hormone regulation, and detoxification, and liver stress or damage can develop gradually without noticeable symptoms.
This test provides a reliable overview of liver health and helps identify early signs of liver inflammation, impaired function, or metabolic strain. It is commonly used as part of routine health screening or to monitor liver function over time.
The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs and is responsible for processing nutrients, breaking down medications and alcohol, producing essential proteins, and removing toxins from the bloodstream.
Liver function testing is important because:
- Liver problems often cause few or no early symptoms
- Abnormal results may indicate inflammation, infection, fatty liver disease, or bile flow issues
- Certain medications, supplements, and alcohol can place additional strain on the liver
This test assesses both liver enzymes, which may rise when liver cells are stressed or damaged, and liver proteins, which reflect the liver’s ability to carry out essential functions.
Fatty Liver Disease
A build-up of fat in the liver that may be linked to diet, alcohol intake, or metabolic conditions.
Liver Inflammation
Inflammation of liver cells that may result from infection, alcohol, medication, or autoimmune conditions.
Bile Duct Disorders
Conditions affecting bile flow that may raise specific liver enzymes.
Medication or Alcohol-Related Liver Stress
Changes in liver markers associated with alcohol intake or medication use.
Chronic Liver Disease
Long-standing liver conditions that may affect protein production and detoxification.
- Assess overall liver health
- Screen for liver inflammation or damage
- Monitor effects of alcohol or medication
- Investigate abnormal liver-related symptoms
- Support routine health screening
What We Test
Biomarkers analysed by accredited UK laboratories
Biomarkers Tested
Liver Enzymes & Proteins
These markers assess liver cell integrity, bile flow, and the liver’s ability to produce essential proteins.
- Alanine Transaminase (ALT)
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
- Albumin
- Globulin
- Total Protein
- Total Bilirubin
In-Clinic Blood Testing At Longridge, Preston
If you’d rather leave everything to a qualified professional, our in-clinic blood testing service is the most comfortable and hands-off experience. Once you complete your order, we’ll contact you to arrange a convenient appointment time.
Your sample will be taken by a trained phlebotomist, making the process quick, smooth, and reassuring - especially if you’re nervous around blood or struggle with finger-prick tests.
We send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed so results can be expected within 72 hours.
Why Use This Service:
Hands-off, professional experience
High-quality samples for complex tests
No risk of “not enough sample”
Support at every step
No posting or packaging required
Convinient appointment times
Taking Charge Of Your Own Health Has Never Been Easier
Worried about your wellbeing?
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or other issues, a comprehensive blood test may be the key to discovering potential underlying health problems.
Need to monitor a health condition?
Blood tests offer essential insights into various aspects of your health, from detecting deficiencies to evaluating immune functions.
Enhancing Performance and Fitness?
Whether you’re training for a sport or keeping track of your fitness progress, a blood test serves as an excellent foundation for your performance improvement journey.
All Our Tests Include:
No GP Referral
Order directly - no waiting for appointments
Fast Results
Detailed analysis within 72 hours
Doctor's Commentary
Expert interpretation of your results included
Secure & Confidential
Discreet service and consultations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Qualified Pharmacists
- Flexible Appointments
- Top Customer Service
How accurate are home finger-prick tests compared to clinic tests?
Our home finger-prick tests use the same accredited laboratories as our clinic tests. While clinic tests allow for more comprehensive panels, home tests are highly accurate for the parameters they measure.
Do I need a GP referral for a blood test?
No, you don’t need a GP referral. You can book directly with us for any blood test. We are a private clinic offering direct access to comprehensive blood testing.
How old do I have to be to have a blood test?
We will only draw blood from those aged 16 and above due to legal requirements.
How long does it take for the blood test results to come?
If you have used our clinic to complete a blood test, we send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed. If you have used a home test kit, then once your sample has been sent off the lab will analyse your sample. Results are usually received within 72 hours.
How do I perform the home finger-prick test?
Your home blood test kit will contain easy-to-follow instructions on how to take your own finger blood sample. If you have any concerns or questions prior to using the kit, please contact our phlebotomists who will be happy to assist.
How do I prepare for a blood test?
There is no preparation required prior to taking any of the blood tests. Please simply remember to stay hydrated prior to your appointment. This is to help your veins dilate better to enable a quick and efficient blood sample to be taken and reduce the risks of feeling faint following your blood test.
Please inform the phlebotomist before your test if you are currently taking any blood thinning medication.
Should I fast before my blood test?
Fasting is not required for most blood tests. However, if your profile includes cholesterol tests and you’ve previously had high levels, consider fasting for 8 hours beforehand. While not essential, fasting can provide more accurate results.
Note: Fasting means abstaining from any food and drink, except for water.