Alanine Transaminase (ALT / SGPT)

Assessment of Alanine aminotransferase enzyme levels to evaluate liver functionality and overall health condition.

Disease.

Kidney & Liver Function Tests, Infectious Disease Tests

Department.
Biochemistry
TAT.

1 Day

Sample Type
  • 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum from 1 SST (yellow or red top).
  • Hemolysed specimens are not acceptable.

What is ALT (GPT)?

Alanine aminotransferase enzyme also known as serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase is found primarily in the liver and speeds up the breakdown of food into energy. It is also present in minute quantities in the heart, muscles, and kidneys. ALT is normally present in small quantities in the blood but when the liver tissues are damaged and functioning improperly the ALT is released in the bloodstream in a much larger quantity than normal, thus this enzyme acts as an important marker in the liver function.

ALT test is conducted to measure the amount of ALT in the blood. This test is beneficial in the detection of diseases associated with liver damage and inflammation including hepatitis, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver disease.

How is the Test Performed?

ALT test is a simple test that provides valuable insights about liver health.

Preparation

  • 10-12 hours of fasting is required for the test to obtain true results as food may interfere with the ALT levels.
  • Your healthcare provider may suggest you avoid certain medications so it is important to inform about your medication intake.
  • Avoid doing intensive exercise before the test.
  • It is advised to avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.


Collection

  • A skilled lab technician draws your blood through a needle, a process called venipuncture.
  • Then the blood is transferred to a vial or tube that is chemically treated to prevent the degradation and contamination of the sample.
  • After the collection of the sample, pressure is applied to the site from where the blood was drawn and then a bandage is applied to stop bleeding.
  • The sample is sent to the laboratory for further analysis.


Laboratory Analysis

  • ALT levels are analyzed using an automated enzyme analyzer for accurate and reliable results.
  • The results are then interpreted in reference to the normal ranges by healthcare providers.

What are the symptoms that prompt this test?

ALT (GPT) test is recommended by the doctor when an individual possesses the risk factors or exhibits symptoms of liver damage and poor health conditions for correct diagnosis and treatment.

General symptoms

  • Jaundice; Yellowing of skin and eyes
  • Feeling unwell or tired
  • Pain in the abdomen especially in the upper right side
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Dark-urine
  • Light-stool
  • Weight loss without known reason
  • Itching
  • Loss of appetite

What are the Normal Ranges for This Test?

The ALT test normal reference range varies with age, gender, and other health conditions. The generally accepted reference range is mentioned below;

  • Male – 29 to 33 U/l
  • Female – 19 to 25 U/l
  • Children (Boys) – Less than and equal to 25
  • Children (Girls) – Less than and equal to 22


**The reference range mentioned is for general guidelines only and may vary with the assay of tests between laboratories. Always consult your healthcare provider for the correct interpretation of the result.**

What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?

Elevated or lowered ALT levels are suggestive of poor liver condition but the test itself cannot provide accurate diagnosis and further testing is required for the confirmation of the disease.

High ALT Levels indicate

  • Hepatitis B and C
  • Alcoholic liver disease causing inflammation in the liver
  • Non-alcoholic liver disease often caused due to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders
  • Liver cirrhosis
  • Liver cancer


Low ALT Levels indicate

  • Vitamin B6 deficiency
  • Kidney failure
  • Advanced cirrhosis
  • Severe liver damage


When ALT abnormalities are detected additional tests including AST, liver biopsy, or imaging studies are recommended for the confirmation of the diagnosis.

Why Choose Genex?

State Of The Art Technology

We use advanced technology and equipment to ensure precise and reliable results. Our cutting-edge tools and methodologies guarantee the highest standards of lab testing.

Highly Skilled Team

Our team consists of skilled technicians trained to handle complex hormonal tests with high accuracy. Each member has years of experience & specialized knowledge to every test.

Fast Turnaround Time

Get your results quickly, helping to make timely decisions regarding your health. We understand the importance of prompt information for effective health management.

Patient-Centered Care

Genex Lab prioritizes your comfort and satisfaction throughout the testing process. Our compassionate approach ensures a supportive and reassuring experience for patients.

Book An Appointment
Back To All Lab Tests

Related Tests

  • Liver Function Tests
  • Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)/ SGOT
  • Gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT)
  • Bilirubin (Total)
  • Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) surface Antigen (HBsAg) Qualitative
  • Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) antibody
  • Ferritin
  • Transferrin Saturation
  • Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
  • Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
  • Total Triiodothyronine(TT3)
  • Total Thyroxine (TT4)
  • Free Triiodothyronine(FT3)
  • Free Thyroxine(FT4)