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What is a liver function test?
A liver function test is a blood test that measures levels of specific enzymes and proteins to assess how well your liver is working, and it can help identify inflammation, damage, or disease affecting the liver, often before symptoms become noticeable. It is a key first step in investigating causes of fatigue, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, or abnormal routine blood results, and forms part of the standard diagnostic pathway for digestive and liver conditions recognised by major health authorities (NIDDK, 2026).
Patients from Newcastle upon Tyne, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland see Dr Kejariwal for liver assessment given his specialist interest in liver disease alongside 18+ years of consultant experience in gastroenterology. Beyond the initial blood test, Dr Kejariwal provides a thorough clinical assessment to identify the underlying cause of any abnormal results, which may include factors such as alcohol use, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, autoimmune conditions, or medication side effects, and to develop an appropriate management plan. Where symptoms overlap with reflux or digestive complaints, Dr Kejariwal can also arrange reflux treatment or further gastrointestinal investigation at the same time.
Liver health in 2026
Fatty liver disease, closely linked to obesity and metabolic conditions, has become an increasingly common cause of abnormal liver function tests across the UK in recent years, and is now recognised as one of the leading drivers of chronic liver disease nationally. The encouraging news is that many causes of abnormal liver function, including fatty liver disease and alcohol-related changes, are potentially reversible with early diagnosis and the right lifestyle changes, which is why prompt, accurate testing matters so much.
Preparation
For most liver function blood tests, no special preparation is required, though you may occasionally be asked to fast beforehand if additional tests are being taken at the same time. It is helpful to bring a list of any medications, supplements, or alcohol consumption details to your consultation, along with results of any previous blood tests, to help build a complete clinical picture.
What happens on the day
01
Arrival & consultation
You will have a detailed consultation with Dr Kejariwal covering your symptoms, medical history, alcohol intake, medications, and any relevant family history of liver disease.
02
Assessment
Dr Kejariwal reviews your results alongside your clinical history to identify the likely cause of any abnormality and assess the severity of any liver condition present.
03
Results & management plan, same day where possible
Where results are available quickly, Dr Kejariwal discusses findings with you directly. A written summary is sent to you and your GP, along with a clear management or monitoring plan.
Frequently asked questions about liver function testing
What does a liver function test check for?
A liver function test checks the levels of specific enzymes and proteins in your blood to assess how well your liver is working and to identify possible inflammation, damage, or disease.
What can cause abnormal liver function test results?
Common causes include fatty liver disease, alcohol use, viral hepatitis, certain medications, autoimmune conditions, and, less commonly, more serious liver disease. Further tests are often needed to confirm the cause.
Can abnormal liver function tests be reversed?
Many causes of abnormal liver function, such as fatty liver disease and alcohol-related changes, can improve significantly with lifestyle changes. Early diagnosis and management give the best chance of reversing damage.
What further tests might I need after a liver function test?
Depending on your results, further tests such as a liver ultrasound, fibroscan (to assess liver stiffness), or specific viral or autoimmune blood tests may be recommended.
Usually seen within 1-2 weeks
Referral routes: GP, self-referral or insurer. Bupa recognised, fee assured.
About Dr Deepak Kejariwal
Consultant Gastroenterologist & General Physician, FRCP, with a specialist interest in liver disease and 18+ years of consultant experience. Serving Newcastle upon Tyne, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland.