A liver function test is a blood test that helps to assess the health of your liver by looking at a number of markers including liver enzymes. This means that these tests can be the first step in diagnosis of conditions such as fatty liver.
These tests have a number of uses. They:
- help to distinguish between different types of liver disorder
- check for the extent of any liver damage
- can help monitor the body’s response to treatment
- monitor the health of your liver whilst you are taking certain medication.
If you have the test with one of our doctors, in the case of abnormal results, the doctor can help you interpret and advise you regarding the next appropriate steps. These may include repeat testing, further testing, or treatment.
Causes
Liver conditions can be caused by:
- genetics and family history
- viruses
- alcohol and drug use
- abnormalities with the immune system
What to do next
If you are concerned about liver disease, or would like to have your liver function tested, please give us a call and make an appointment to get tested.
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02073231023Harley St Area
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02071010355City of London
Procedure
Please ensure that you arrive for your blood test well-hydrated.
During the testThe liver function test is a simple, quick blood test. A needle is inserted into a vein, usually on the inner arm near the elbow, and a small amount of blood is drawn. You may feel a pricking or scratching sensation.
Blood
Results
If you have the test on its own, we will email you the results as soon they arrive from the laboratory. The test price doesn’t include interpretation of the results. We suggest that our patients have a consultation ahead of the test. This provides an opportunity to discuss any concerns and symptoms with the doctor, get professional advice on the most suitable testing, and means you will get a follow up call from the doctor explaining all your results.
FAQ
Liver disease can be caused by a number of different factors including excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, hereditary factors, hepatitis, and other viruses.
The liver has a huge role in our overall health. It converts the food we eat into energy, and detoxifies the body of substances such as alcohol, medications, and environmental toxins. It also produces a number of enzymes and chemicals needed for the body’s major processes.
Long-term damage to the liver, where it is not able to regenerate itself, can cause a scarring of the organ called cirrhosis. If liver disease is caught and treated before cirrhosis develops, the liver is actually the only organ in the body that can regenerate and heal itself.
