Overview
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is present primarily in liver cells. In viral hepatitis and other forms of liver disease associated with hepatic necrosis, serum ALT is elevated even before the clinical signs and symptoms of the disease appear. Although serum levels of both aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and ALT become elevated whenever disease processes affect liver cell integrity, ALT is a more liver-specific enzyme. Serum elevations of ALT are rarely observed in conditions other than parenchymal liver disease. Moreover, the elevation of ALT activity persists longer than does AST activity.
What is Sgpt (alt) ?
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) is present primarily in Liver cells. In Viral Hepatitis and other forms of Liver disease associated with Hepatic Necrosis, Serum ALT is elevated even before the clinical signs and symptoms of the disease appear. Although serum levels of both aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and ALT become elevated whenever disease processes affect liver cell integrity, ALT is a more liver-specific enzyme. Serum elevations of ALT are rarely observed in conditions other than parenchymal liver disease. Moreover, the elevation of ALT activity persists longer than does AST activity.
What is the Cost of Sgpt (alt)
The Price of a S.G.P.T (ALT) Test is Rs.150. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
-
Other tests advised along with ALT test
-
Offers or discounts
-
Empanelment of the patient
What is the Purpose of the Sgpt (alt) ?
The ALT test is advised for following analysis:
-
Screening: If you are suffering from obesity, diabetes, habit of heavy alcohol consumption, or have a family history of liver disease, your doctor may advise you on an ALT screening. ALT levels can be tested during regular medical examinations along with complete LFT.
-
Diagnosis: This test may also be advised after symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, swelling, unexplained weight loss, itching, nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms associated with liver problems have appeared.
-
Monitoring: After the diagnosis of a liver disease, ALT test is often advised to monitor the course of the disease and the efficacy of therapy over an extended period, ensuring appropriate management when required.
-
Assessing the Effect of Medical Conditions and Treatments: ALT test helps to evaluate how different medical conditions and treatments, like chemotherapy or other medication, affect ALT levels, ensuring the best possible liver care and overall treatment efficacy.
When is the Sgpt (alt) Recommended ?
If you have following symptoms, then ALT test is advised:
-
Nausea
-
Vomiting
-
Lack of appetite
-
Fatigue
-
Weakness
-
Jaundice
-
Swelling and pain in your abdomen
-
Swelling in your ankles and legs
-
Dark-colored urine
-
Light-colored stool
-
Abnormal itching
Preparation for Sgpt (alt)
-
Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the ALT test.
-
Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to an ALT test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
-
Drink adequate water before sample collection.
-
Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.