Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) Lab & Diagnostic Card
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), formerly known as serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme produced by the liver. The highest concentration of ALT is found in liver cells; moderate amounts are found in kidney cells; and smaller amounts are found in heart, pancreas, spleen, skeletal muscle, and red blood cells.
When liver damage occurs, serum levels of ALT may increase as much as 50 times normal, making this a sensitive test for evaluating liver function. ALT is part of a group of tests known as LFTs or liver function tests used to evaluate liver function.
INDICATIONS
•Compare serially with aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels to track the course of liver disease
•Monitor liver damage resulting from hepatotoxic drugs