Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

Introduction

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme involved in amino acid metabolism. Measurements of ALT are useful for detecting liver disease and monitoring overall health. Typically, ALT values are at least 10–fold higher than normal in individuals with liver disease (e.g. hepatitis, mononucleosis, and cirrhosis). ALT levels can also be mildly to moderately elevated in other health conditions, but very high levels are not usually observed in other disease processes.

Pricing

$49

How to order a test

Synonyms

• Glutamic Pyruvate Transaminase
• SGPT
• Transaminases

What is Included?

Measurement of alanine aminotransferase levels in a blood sample by enzymatic NADH methodology.

Turnaround Time

1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.

Related Documents

Additional Information and Resources

» What are the signs of liver disease? ​

Preparation Before Specimen Collection

None

Specimen Type

Blood

Volume

50 μL in a microtainer

Container

Microtainer (regular blood tube)

Collection Method

This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.

1. First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
2. Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
3. Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
4. Wipe away the first drop of blood.
5. Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
6. Drip blood into the microtainer tube.
7. Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.

NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.

Specimen Storage

Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.

Specimen Stability

Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Causes for Rejection

• Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
• Incorrect specimen collection
• Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
• Incorrect specimen volume
• Gross hemolysis
• Excessive lipemia

Purpose

To measure alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in a blood sample for the evaluation of liver health and disease.

Elevated ALT is a reasonably specific indicator of liver disease, as it occurs in a variety of diseases that involve the liver, including hepatitis, mononucleosis, and cirrhosis.

Limitations

• This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
• These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
• Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
• Interferences from medication or endogenous substances may affect results.
• ALT levels may be increased in obese individuals. 
• Very strenuous recent physical exercise or severe injury to muscle, and recent surgery may affect results.

Methodology

Enzymatic NADH (Alinity c Alanine Aminotransferase assay)

Reference Intervals

Normal alanine aminotransferase serum levels in adults are 0 – 55 U/L.

This reference range was obtained from the Alinity c Alanine Aminotransferase package insert. (Source: Kaplan LA, Pesce AJ, editors. Clinical Chemistry Theory, Analysis, and Correlation, 2nd ed. St Louis, MO: CV Mosby; 1989:895–898.)