Alanine aminotransferase

Alanine aminotransferase Latest News

Recently, the Union Health Ministry has urged people to monitor alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels as an early indicator of liver injury.

About Alanine aminotransferase

• It is also known as serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme found predominantly inside liver cells.
•  It is also found in other tissues such as the kidneys, heart, and muscle cells. 
•  It plays a crucial role in metabolism, turning food into energy.
• ALT is one component of the liver function test, which includes other liver enzymes and measures of liver function.
• The ALT test is often part of an initial screening for liver disease.

‹ ›

What is an ALT Test?

• An ALT test is also known as a serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) test or an alanine transaminase test.
• When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, ALT leaks into the bloodstream. This causes serum ALT levels to rise.
• An increase in ALT is often the first sign of a liver problem, and ALT is often elevated before other symptoms appear.
• ALT testing is performed on a blood sample.

Source: TH