Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests are an important way to assess how well your liver is working and to identify any early signs of liver-related issues. These tests are commonly used to investigate symptoms, monitor existing liver conditions, or screen for potential liver disease, especially in individuals with risk factors.

Procedure

Liver function tests are a group of blood tests that measure specific enzymes, proteins, and substances processed by the liver. These include:

  • ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) and AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): Enzymes released into the blood when liver cells are damaged.
  • ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase): May be elevated in liver or bile duct conditions.
  • Bilirubin: A substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells; high levels may indicate problems with liver processing or bile flow.

These values help us assess the overall health of your liver, detect inflammation or damage, and guide decisions about further investigation or treatment.

What to Expect at the Clinic:

  1. Arrival and Registration
    When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our reception team and asked to complete a Medical History form. This includes questions about any current symptoms, known liver conditions, lifestyle factors, or medications.
  2. Consultation
    A doctor will meet with you in a private consultation room to review your medical history and discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have. Based on this, we will recommend the appropriate liver function tests.
  3. Consent and Testing
    Once a plan is agreed upon, you will be asked to sign a consent form. A small blood sample will then be drawn—this is a routine procedure and usually completed within minutes.
  4. Aftercare
    You’ll be provided with a simple aftercare sheet, mainly outlining how to care for the blood draw site and what to expect next.
  5. Follow-Up
    A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled within two weeks to review your results and discuss any further steps, whether that involves monitoring, lifestyle advice, or additional testing.

Price

The cost of the treatment is determined by each patient’s individual needs and the personalised approach required for their treatment.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.

FAQ's

What do liver function tests measure?

These tests measure the levels of enzymes and substances in your blood that reflect liver performance and health, including signs of damage or inflammation.

Most liver function test results are available within a few days.

No. These are standard blood tests. The only sensation comes from the small needle used to collect the sample.

You may be asked to fast (avoid food and drink, except water) for 8–12 hours before the test. Specific instructions will be given ahead of your appointment.

Yes. Liver function tests can help identify liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis, especially when combined with your clinical history and symptoms.

If any results are outside the expected range, your doctor will explain what this means and may recommend additional tests or treatment depending on the findings.

SkinSense GP Clinic in Chelmsford Essex