Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme inside the liver cells. The bigger the liver damage, the more of it will be present in the blood.

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme that is made in the liver and is one of the tests done to check for liver function. It can be found in other tissues in the body, but is in highest concentration in the liver. This test is one of the important tests to check for damage to the liver cells, and in doing so, it is a marker for liver health. When cells die, they release ALT into the plasma. Cell death and a raised ALT can be an indication of hepatitis, diabetes, congestive heart failure, liver damage and bile duct problems. Due to its non-specificity, it is commonly used in combination with other liver function tests to adequately come to a diagnosis.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine
• Pain in the abdomen on the upper right
• A significant drinking history
• History of hepatitis

Also Known As: ALT/SGPT