- Product description:
- Overview:
What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the levels of Alanine transaminase (ALT) in the blood. ALT is normally found in the liver cells. However, when the liver is damaged ALT may leak into the bloodstream. ALT test is also called SGPT (Serum glutamic-pyruvate transaminase).
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To evaluate the function of liver
- To screen for liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis caused by alcohol and other substances toxic to the liver
- To monitor the efficacy of treatment.
- What are the symptoms of a liver disease?
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling
- Dark colored urine
- Pale stool color
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itchy skin
- What are the symptoms of high SGPT?
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Jaundice
- Loss of appetite
- Itching
- Dark colored urine
- Light colored stool
- Weakness
- What are causes of high ALT other than liver problems?
Other than liver problems, ALT can be elevated in condition with damage to the heart and skeletal muscles.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness
.
- What are the risk factors for liver disease?
- Alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Exposure to hepatitis virus
- Family history of liver disease
- Diabetes
- Tattoos or body-piercing
- Unprotected sex