ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase). Prices, Reviews, Ratings
ALT transaminase concentration testing is used as a functional liver test. Studies of its biochemical role show that increased activity reflects disease stage and complications, not etiology.
ALT transaminase concentration testing is used as a functional liver test. Studies of its biochemical role show that increased activity reflects disease stage and complications, not etiology.
What is ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), formerly glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), is a transaminase enzyme catalyzing the reversible transfer of an amino group (NH2) from alanine, forming glutamate and pyruvic acid. It’s primarily located in hepatocyte cytoplasm, with presence in skeletal muscles, kidneys, myocardium, and pancreas, supporting vital carbohydrate-protein metabolism.
Indications for ALT Testing
ALT detection in blood is a quality marker for liver damage and cytolysis (increased membrane permeability and cytoplasmic component accumulation in serum). Such deviations stem from hepatocyte metabolism disruptions due to infectious or toxic factors.
GPT activity testing is more specific for liver disease diagnosis than aspartate aminotransferase (AST). It’s also used for differential diagnosis of pancreatic and biliary diseases, monitoring viral hepatitis therapy, distinguishing hepatic from hemolytic jaundice, and screening donors.
Elevated ALT is typical in acute toxic/viral hepatitis, biliary obstruction, liver metastases, cirrhosis, alcohol exposure, leukemia, myocardial infarction, heart failure, pancreatitis, myositis, severe burns, and certain medications.
Reduced levels occur with urogenital infections, tumors, alcohol intoxication, and some drugs.
How ALT Testing Is Performed
Venous blood is drawn, with serum or plasma separated from blood cells within 2 hours, free of hemolysis signs.
Measurements use specific reagent kits manually or via automated analyzers. Reagents mixed with the sample assess ALT catalytic activity via NADH reduction rate (optical density), proportional to ALT concentration, measured photometrically at 340 nm. Results are calculated using formulas.
Reference ALT range at 37°C (U/L): men ≤ 41, women ≤ 33.
Data are indicative; serial tests within one lab provide the most significant insights.
Analytical sensitivity is 2-5 U/L. Single-test diagnosis isn’t recommended; it requires clinical-laboratory corroboration.
Processing Time for ALT Testing
With all reagents available, testing averages 15-30 minutes. Automated testing boosts efficiency and reduces result time.
Prices and Clinics
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