It is a simple blood test that measures SGPT levels in blood.
The full form of SGPT is serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase.
It is also called as ALT (alanine aminotransferase).
ALT is similar to aspartate transaminase (AST) in that both enzymes are associated with liver parenchymal cells
Serum ALT level, serum AST level, and their ratio (AST/ALT ratio) are commonly measured clinically as biomarkers for liver health.
ALT blood test is used to look for damage to liver in various conditions.
ALT helps to convert food into energy.
In healthy person ALT levels are low but if liver is a damaged ALT level increase in blood.
Why the test os Ordered
Your doctor might recommend ALT if you have symptoms of liver disease or damage, such as:
Stomach pain or swelling
Nausea
Vomiting
Yellow skin or eyes (a condition called jaundice)
Weakness
Extreme tiredness or fatigue
Dark-colored urine
Light-colored poop
Itchy skin
This test is also done to monitor response to treatment of liver disease.
It is also done as routine tests as a part of health check up.
Results and interpretation
A normal ALT test result can range from 7 to 55 units per liter (U/L). Levels are normally higher in men
What causes high SGPT levels
A high level of SGPT can either be a by-product of certain medical conditions or side effects of unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Slightly high ALT levels may be caused by:
Alcohol abuse
Cirrhosis
Mononucleosis
Drugs such as statins, aspirin, and some sleep aids
Moderately high ALT levels may be because of:
Chronic liver disease
Alcohol abuse
Cirrhosis
Blockage of the bile ducts
Heart attack
Damage to red blood cell
Too much vitamin A
Very high ALT levels can be caused by
Acute viral hepatitis
An overdose of drugs such as acetaminophen
Liver cancer
Sepsis
2 окт 2024
