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Results: ~3 working days
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Convenient home or clinic sampling
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The LFT measures key liver enzymes and proteins. It reports alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) for liver cell damage, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) for bile duct or bone issues, bilirubin for liver processing of waste, and albumin for protein production by the liver[1].
Sample collection: A small blood sample is taken (usually serum tube) by a finger-prick kit at home or in one of our UK clinics. Our kit includes everything needed; simply return the sample in the pre-paid envelope. Results include a personalised doctor’s interpretation.
Age restriction: Adults 18+ only (guardian consent required for minors).
Liver Function Tests (LFT) are a common group of blood tests that evaluate how well your liver is working[1]. They check for liver damage, inflammation, or disease by measuring enzymes, proteins, and waste products in the blood[2]. Your doctor may order an LFT as part of a routine check-up or if you have symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue, or dark urine[2][3]. The test helps catch problems early by showing elevated enzyme levels or abnormal protein balances. Swift Blood Tests processes samples rapidly, with results and a doctor’s report typically within a few days.
an enzyme found mainly in the liver[1]. High levels indicate liver cell damage, such as from hepatitis or alcohol use.
an enzyme in the liver and other tissues[1]. Elevated AST, often with ALT, suggests liver injury or heart issues.
an enzyme related to bile ducts and bones[1]. High ALP can signal liver obstruction, bone disease, or pregnancy.
a waste product from red blood cell breakdown[1]. High levels cause jaundice and may indicate liver dysfunction or gallstones.
a protein made by the liver[1]. Low albumin can point to chronic liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney problems.
A venous blood sample is required (collected in a gold-top serum tube). No special patient preparation (such as fasting) is needed for a standard LFT[4], though some providers recommend avoiding alcohol for 24 hours beforehand. Simply drink water and eat normally unless otherwise instructed. Send samples via the next-day laboratory service.
Elevated enzymes (ALT, AST) suggest conditions like fatty liver or viral hepatitis[3]. Further tests (ultrasound, viral serology) may follow.
Raised ALP and bilirubin often indicate obstruction, such as gallstones or tumours.
Low albumin can flag chronic liver conditions like cirrhosis or nutritional deficiencies.
Doctors use LFTs to monitor medications that affect the liver (e.g., statins, antibiotics), alcohol-related recovery, or chronic liver disease management. The LFT provides an overall snapshot of liver health and often leads to more specific follow-up tests if abnormalities are found.
You may be advised to take an LFT if you have any of the following signs or risk factors: Symptoms of liver issues: fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice), or itchy skin. Signs of infection or inflammation: abdominal swelling, pain under the ribs, or dark urine/light stools. Risk factors: heavy alcohol use, obesity, diabetes, or exposure to hepatitis viruses. Chronic conditions: monitoring of known liver disorders, long-term medications (like painkillers), or family history of liver disease. For example, a patient with persistent fatigue may have elevated ALT/AST (indicating liver inflammation) on an LFT[3]. Similarly, someone with jaundice might have high bilirubin levels pointing to a blockage. Your doctor will interpret the results alongside your history and may order additional tests based on the LFT findings.
If you can’t find the test you’re looking for, simply give us a call and our support team will guide you to the right option. We’re here to ensure you get the correct test quickly and confidently.
An LFT is a group of tests that measure enzymes, proteins, and waste products in your blood to assess liver health, including ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin, and albumin[1]. It provides a broad overview of liver function.
An LFT is often ordered as part of routine health checks or when you have symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain[2][3]. It can help diagnose conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, or medication side effects.
No special preparation is usually required[4]. You can eat and drink normally, but avoid alcohol if possible. If the test is part of multiple tests (some require fasting), your provider will advise you.
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm using a needle. It is quick (often under 5 minutes) and routine. You may feel a brief pinch; afterwards, a bandage is applied. There are minimal risks.
You might experience slight pain or bruising at the needle site, which usually resolves quickly. In rare cases, a small bruise or feeling faint can occur.
Results are typically available within 2–3 working days. Swift Blood Tests provides a detailed doctor’s report explaining your results. You will be notified by email or phone as agreed.
Yes. Swift Blood Tests offers a convenient home sample collection kit (finger-prick or small tube) with instructions, or you can choose a clinic appointment. Follow the included instructions to collect and return the sample by post.
Alcohol consumption can raise enzymes like ALT/AST. Recent meals or dehydration may slightly affect bilirubin or albumin[6]. Certain medications and infections can also influence levels. It’s best to mention any current health conditions or medicines when you discuss results with the doctor.
An abnormal result does not always mean disease. For example, slightly elevated ALT might indicate mild liver stress, medication effects, or even exercise[3]. High bilirubin usually means jaundice-related issues. Your doctor will interpret any out-of-range values and may recommend follow-up tests (e.g. ultrasound, viral tests) to find the cause.
This test is intended for adults (18+). If testing is needed for a child or teenager, please consult with a paediatric specialist or contact us for guidance.
