Your liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your body, performing over 500 essential functions including filtering blood, producing bile for digestion, and processing medications.
What Liver Function Tests Measure
A liver function test (LFT) measures several enzymes and proteins in your blood:
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) - An enzyme found mainly in the liver. Elevated levels may indicate liver damage.
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) - Found in the liver and other organs. High levels can suggest liver problems.
ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) - Elevated levels may indicate bile duct problems or bone disease.
GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) - Often elevated with liver disease or bile duct problems.
Bilirubin - A yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. High levels can cause jaundice.
Albumin - A protein made by the liver. Low levels may indicate liver disease.
Causes of Abnormal Results
Elevated liver enzymes can be caused by various factors:
Who Should Get Tested?
Liver function tests may be recommended if you:
At Private Blood Tests London, liver function tests are available as a standalone test or as part of our comprehensive health screening packages.
Learn about decoding your liver function tests, liver health and what blood tests reveal, and explore our liver function test services.