Private liver function test,
Harley Street, London.
ALT, AST and GGT as part of a wider health check, or on their own in a custom panel, reviewed by a GMC-registered doctor at 134 Harley Street. No GP referral needed.
Quick answer
A liver function test (LFT) measures enzymes and proteins in the blood, such as ALT, AST and GGT, that change when the liver is under strain. At WMG Health, liver function tests are part of the General Wellness panel (£279). For liver markers alone, a doctor can build a custom panel and confirm the price in writing. A result is information, not a diagnosis.
The main liver markers
- ALT (alanine aminotransferase)
An enzyme found mainly inside liver cells. It leaks into the blood when liver cells are inflamed or damaged, which makes it the most liver-specific of the routine liver enzymes.
- AST (aspartate aminotransferase)
An enzyme released when cells are damaged. It is found in the liver but also in muscle and heart, so it is read alongside ALT.
- GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase)
An enzyme that can stay raised for a few weeks after a period of drinking, so it reflects recent as well as current intake.
The exact liver markers reported depend on the panel or custom panel you book, and your results show the laboratory range for each. These pages explain what each marker means; this page is where to book.
How to get a liver function test here
Liver function tests are included in the General Wellness panel (£279), which also covers the blood count, iron stores, vitamins, thyroid function, kidney function, cholesterol and HbA1c. For liver markers on their own, ask for a custom panel.
Results are released as each marker is reviewed by a GMC-registered doctor, and we confirm the expected timeframe at booking. Read more in our health screening overview, or check cholesterol in the same visit.
Liver function test questions
What does a liver function test show?
A liver function test (LFT) measures enzymes and proteins in the blood, such as ALT, AST and GGT, that change when the liver is under strain. It shows whether liver cells may be inflamed or damaged. It does not diagnose a cause: a raised result is usually repeated and then looked into by a doctor.
How do I get a liver function test privately in London?
Liver function tests are included in the General Wellness panel (£279). If you only want liver markers, a doctor can build a custom panel with ALT, AST, GGT or a full liver function test and confirm the price in writing before you book. No GP referral is needed.
How should I prepare for a liver function test?
Avoid alcohol for 24 to 48 hours and strenuous exercise for 48 hours beforehand, because both can affect liver enzymes. The General Wellness panel needs a fast of at least 12 hours (water is fine) and a morning appointment between 8am and 10am is preferred. Do not stop prescribed medication, and tell us what you take.
Can one raised result be normal?
Sometimes. Intense exercise, a recent period of drinking and some medicines can raise liver enzymes temporarily, which is why a single mildly raised result is usually repeated before further investigation.
When should I see a doctor rather than book a test?
See your GP promptly if you have yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine with pale stools, persistent itching, or ongoing pain in the upper right abdomen. Call 999 or go to A&E for severe abdominal pain or vomiting blood.
Ready to book?
Reviewed by a GMC-registered doctor at 134 Harley Street. No referral needed.
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