SGPT/ALT TEST
675 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
Glutamic pyruvate transaminase, SGPT, Transaminases, Alanine Aminotransferase.
Purpose
The SGPT/ALT test measures the amount of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) enzyme in the blood to evaluate liver injury. This liver function test helps detect liver inflammation or damage.
Liver damage releases ALT into the bloodstream. Monitoring ALT levels helps in diagnosing conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and liver damage from medication or alcohol.
The test can be performed alongside AST (SGOT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and Bilirubin test.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation is required. However, the doctor may recommend not eating for a few hours before the test.
Samples
1ml with a minimum volume of 0.7ml of Serum or plasma collected in a Gel-barrier, red-top, or green-top tube (lithium heparin). Avoid using EDTA, oxalate, or citrate plasma. Separate the plasma or serum from the cells within 45 minutes of sample collection. Preferably, store the sample at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Reference Range
7 to 56 U/L (units per liter)
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours of sample receipt
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
The ALT test is useful for indicating hepatocyte injury, hepatic cirrhosis, increased Reye Syndrome, hepatitis A, or hepatitis B. Some possible outcomes of the test include;
- Normal or low ALT levels usually suggest no active liver damage, but results should be interpreted alongside other liver function tests for an accurate diagnosis.
- Elevated ALT levels typically indicate liver cell injury or inflammation.
- High levels may suggest conditions such as hepatitis A or B, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or damage from drugs or alcohol.
- Significantly increased ALT may also appear in Reye syndrome.
- Mild to moderate elevations can occur with muscle injury or other systemic illnesses.
For more on Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase Test, read this study.