Description of Alanine Transferase (ALT)

The Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) test, also known as Alanine Transferase, is a blood test that measures the levels of the ALT enzyme in the blood. ALT is primarily found in the liver and is released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged. This test is often part of a liver Function test (LFTs) panel and is used to assess liver health and diagnose liver diseases.

Indications of the Test:

The test is used to detect liver damage, monitor the progression of liver diseases, and assess the effectiveness of treatment. It is also used to differentiate between different types of liver diseases and to determine the severity of liver damage.

Patient Preparation/Instructions:

No specific preparation is usually needed for this test. However, it is important to follow any instructions provided by the healthcare provider, such as fasting before the test if required.

Typical Reference Values:

The typical reference values for ALT are 4-36 units/L at 37°C for adults and children.

Turnaround Time:

The turnaround time for this test is usually 24-48 hours

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