GLDH blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver, inside the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures of the cell. It is concentrated in the central part of each liver lobule. Because it sits inside the mitochondria rather than in the general cell fluid, it tends to be released when liver cells are more significantly stressed or damaged.

GLDH is not part of routine NHS liver tests, but it is used in some laboratories and research settings to add detail. One recognised use is helping to tell liver injury apart from muscle injury when ALT and AST are raised, since GLDH comes almost entirely from the liver.

The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result with you, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• A previous liver test showed raised ALT or AST and you want more detail.
• You train intensively and want to know whether raised enzymes come from muscle or liver.
• You are reviewing liver health in depth with your practitioner.
• You take medicines or supplements that can affect the liver and want an additional marker.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your GLDH value against the laboratory reference range. A raised GLDH suggests liver cell stress, which can be linked with alcohol, a fatty liver, reduced blood flow to the liver, some medicines and other liver conditions. A normal GLDH alongside raised ALT and AST after heavy training can support a muscle source for those enzymes.

GLDH is read together with the standard liver tests and your history. A value outside the range is a prompt for discussion with your practitioner and, where appropriate, your GP, rather than a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

Fasting is not required. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours and strenuous exercise for 48 hours before your test, as both can affect liver and muscle enzymes. Please tell us about prescribed medicines, herbal remedies and supplements. Do not pause prescribed medicines unless your doctor has told you to.

The Liver Function Check covers the standard liver enzymes, and GLDH is included in Omnia Signature. You can also compare every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a GLDH test in Chiswick?

A GLDH blood test at Omnia Lifestyle costs £69. The price covers your sample in Chiswick, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

How is GLDH different from ALT?

Both are liver enzymes. ALT is found in the general fluid of liver cells and in small amounts in muscle, while GLDH is found inside mitochondria and is more specific to the liver.

Should I have GLDH instead of a standard liver test?

No. A standard liver panel is the usual first step. GLDH is best added when those results need more explanation.

Can exercise affect GLDH?

Very little directly, which is part of its value. Hard exercise mainly raises muscle enzymes, so GLDH can help show whether a raised ALT or AST is likely to come from the liver.