Liver function test: ALAT, ASAT and GGT measured

A liver function test gives you a snapshot of how your liver is carrying out its processing and filtering tasks. Liver values can change gradually due to factors like diet, alcohol and medication, often without any noticeable symptoms.

A liver blood test measures the enzymes and proteins doctors most commonly use to assess liver function. For a busy professional, it can be an efficient liver check with clear results, without first visiting your GP.

A liver function blood test may suit people who:

• want to check their liver health as part of a general wellness check
• consume alcohol and want to monitor its possible effect on the liver
• take medications that may affect liver function
• have a family history of liver conditions
• previously had elevated liver values and want to recheck them

This test includes a Liver Function Test (LFT), a panel that measures the main liver values in your blood. It typically covers:

• ALT (ALAT): an enzyme found mainly in the liver
• AST (ASAT): an enzyme found in the liver and other tissues
• GGT: an enzyme that can respond to alcohol or certain medications
• Bilirubin: a waste product processed by the liver

Depending on the lab, values such as ALP, albumin and total protein may also be part of a liver panel. You can read more on the page about the Liver Function Test (LFT).

Elevated ALT or AST may point to increased activity of your liver cells, which can happen for many reasons such as alcohol use, fat build-up in the liver or a medication effect. A raised GGT is sometimes associated with alcohol or the bile ducts, and elevated bilirubin can say something about how your liver processes waste.

This liver values test provides a snapshot and is most meaningful when you look at the values together. A doctor can help determine whether elevated liver values warrant further investigation.

For this test, blood is drawn at a certified sample point. There are 700+ locations across the Netherlands, which you choose yourself after ordering, at a time that suits you.

You do not need to see your GP first. The draw is done by trained staff, usually takes only a few minutes, and your blood is analysed in a certified lab.

A liver blood test can be useful when:

• you want to check your liver health without specific symptoms
• you take medications that may put strain on the liver
• you want to see how your diet and lifestyle are reflected in your liver values
• you had abnormal values before and want to track the current situation

Because you can arrange this blood test without a referral, it is a low-threshold way to keep an eye on your liver.

Each value is shown with your measured result and its reference range. Mildly elevated enzymes can occur temporarily due to strenuous exercise, medications or recent alcohol use.

Persistently elevated liver values or a combination of abnormal values may suggest a need for further investigation. A liver values test on its own is not a diagnosis; a doctor can interpret your results in the context of your lifestyle, medical history and any medications.

Fasting is not strictly required but may make some results more consistent. If you choose to fast, 8 to 12 hours is recommended.

Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours before the test, as recent alcohol intake can temporarily raise your liver enzymes and affect your results.

Your results are online within a few working days, with your values, the reference ranges and a plain-language explanation for each marker. If a value falls outside the expected range, this is clearly highlighted.

Every blood test result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.