The Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) test, also called a Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase (SGPT) test, is a simple blood test that measures the amount of the ALT enzyme in your bloodstream. This enzyme is mainly found in the liver but also exists in smaller amounts in the kidneys, heart, and muscles.

An ALT test is important for evaluating liver function. Under normal conditions, only trace amounts of ALT are found in the blood. Elevated ALT levels suggest liver damage or inflammation, as more enzyme is released into the blood when the liver is injured. Although the SGPT test is useful for checking liver function, it does not identify the specific cause of liver damage.

Several conditions can lead to higher ALT levels, including alcohol-related liver damage, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), chronic hepatitis B or C, autoimmune hepatitis, and liver damage from certain medications or herbal supplements. Other causes include genetic liver disorders and infections like viral hepatitis.

The ALT test is typically included in liver function panels or comprehensive metabolic panels. At Orange Health Labs, we offer this as an individual test. The results aid doctors in determining if the liver is functioning normally and whether further diagnostic steps or treatments are necessary.

If liver health is a concern and you reside in Gurgaon, you can conveniently book an ALT/SGPT test and have it administered at home.

Consider these key aspects before planning to have an ALT/SGPT test done at home:

• Prerequisites

It is not required to fast before the ALT/SGPT test.

• Best Time to Get Tested

You can arrange for the ALT/SGPT test at any time during the day.

• Who Should Get an ALT/SGPT Test

The ALT/SGPT test is advisable for individuals experiencing symptoms such as jaundice or abdominal pain, those with heavy alcohol consumption, individuals on medications known to cause liver toxicity and a history of liver issues. This test is crucial for assessing liver function.

• Cautions Before Taking an ALT/SGPT Test

There are no specific precautions to follow for the ALT/SGPT test, as it is a straightforward blood test that requires a blood draw. If you have any queries regarding preparation, it's best to consult a doctor who can offer tailored advice based on your health circumstances.

The ALT/SGPT test is a key method for assessing liver function. Since ALT is mainly found in the liver, elevated levels in the blood can indicate potential liver damage. Here are several reasons to undergo an ALT test:

• Screening : Frequent ALT testing is essential for the early detection of liver disorders, particularly for individuals with risk factors such as a family history of liver disease, intravenous drug use, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, and diabetes. ALT tests are also routinely included in general health check-ups, like comprehensive metabolic panels (CMP), to monitor overall health even in those without specific risk factors.

• Monitoring : For people with known liver conditions, the ALT test is vital for observing the disease's development. It helps establish whether the liver health is improving, worsening, or remaining stable. This ongoing evaluation is critical for those receiving treatment or medications that could affect liver performance. Consistent ALT testing delivers important insights into how well the liver is responding to treatment and if modifications are needed.

• Diagnosing : In cases where symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea, fatigue, decreased appetite, or itchy skin are present, the ALT test may be part of the diagnostic process. Elevated ALT levels alone do not confirm a specific liver condition, but they are important for determining the need for further testing and evaluation.

In conclusion, the ALT or SGPT test is crucial for screening, monitoring, and diagnosing liver health concerns, offering vital information that supports effective management and treatment of liver issues.

Normal levels are generally considered to be below 50 U/L, although this range can differ based on age, and sex, and may vary between different laboratories.

Elevated ALT levels can suggest liver dysfunction due to conditions such as liver inflammation (acute or chronic hepatitis), liver scarring (cirrhosis), or liver tumours. High ALT levels are also commonly observed in steatohepatitis, acute Budd-Chiari syndrome, ischemic hepatitis, autoimmune disorders, hemochromatosis, alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency, Wilson disease, Celiac disease, and obesity. Additionally, increased ALT may be associated with medications/toxins. It can also indicate problems outside the liver, such as muscle damage, inflammation, or heart conditions.

Increased ALT levels present significant information for doctors to help ascertain the source of your symptoms and to inform further diagnostic or treatment strategies.