ALT

Alanine transaminase (ALT), also known as alanine aminotransferase or serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme that is primarily found in the liver. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids, specifically in the conversion of the amino acid alanine and alpha-ketoglutarate to pyruvate and glutamate. This process is vital for the production of energy and the synthesis of various biomolecules necessary for cellular function.

ALT is commonly measured in blood tests as a part of liver function tests to assess liver health. Elevated levels of ALT in the blood can indicate liver damage or inflammation, as the enzyme is released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged. Conditions that can lead to elevated ALT levels include hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. However, ALT levels can also be elevated due to reasons outside of liver dysfunction, such as muscle damage.

The normal range for ALT levels can vary depending on the laboratory and the specific method used for measurement. However, it is generally considered to be around 7 to 56 units per liter of serum. It is important to interpret ALT levels in conjunction with other liver function tests and clinical information to accurately diagnose and manage liver-related conditions.

In addition to its role in diagnosing liver conditions, ALT levels can also be used to monitor the progression of liver disease and the response to treatment. For example, in patients with hepatitis C, a decrease in ALT levels may indicate a positive response to antiviral therapy.