Alanine Transaminase (ALT), also known as Serum Glutamic-Pyruvic Transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme found primarily in the liver. The ALT test measures the level of ALT in the blood and is used to assess liver function and to detect liver damage or injury.

Pre-test preparation: No special preparation is needed for the ALT test.

Testing method: A blood sample is taken from a patient and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The sample is then analyzed to determine the level of ALT in the blood.

Common symptoms for prescribing this test: The ALT test is usually ordered when a patient has symptoms of liver disease such as jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue, and loss of appetite. The test is also ordered as a follow-up test to monitor treatment of liver disease.

Diagnosis: Elevated ALT levels can indicate liver damage or injury, but the diagnosis of liver disease is typically based on a combination of clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings.

Reference range: The reference range for ALT levels can vary depending on the lab, but generally, it is considered normal for adult to have ALT levels of 7-55 U/L.

Normal values: The normal range for ALT levels can vary depending on the lab, but typically falls between 7-55 U/L in adults.

It is important to note that an elevated ALT level does not confirm a diagnosis of liver disease and should be interpreted along with clinical presentation and other laboratory test results. Additionally, other factors such as age, sex, and certain medications can affect ALT levels, so the results should be considered in the context of the patient’s overall clinical picture. Additionally, ALT levels can be increased in conditions other than liver disease, such as muscle injury, so it is important to correlate the results with the clinical presentation.