Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found inside liver cells. it helps the liver break down proteins to make them easier for your body to absorb. When your liver is damaged or inflamed, it can release ALT into your bloodstream. This causes ALT levels to rise. Read More
Enzymes play a crucial role in our body, acting as catalysts for various biochemical reactions. One such enzyme is Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), found mainly in the liver and kidneys. ALT helps to convert the amino acid alanine into pyruvate, essential for energy production.
This process is vital for maintaining proper glucose metabolism and providing energy to the body’s cells. Without ALT, our bodies would struggle to function efficiently on a cellular level. Elevated levels of ALT can indicate liver damage or disease, making it an important biomarker for assessing hepatic health.
Regular monitoring of ALT through blood tests can provide valuable information about our overall health status and help identify potential issues early on.
When it comes to liver function, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) plays a vital role. ALT is an enzyme found primarily in the liver cells and helps in the metabolism of proteins. It is crucial for maintaining overall liver health and functionality.
The importance of ALT lies in its ability to indicate any potential damage or stress on the liver. When there are elevated levels of ALT in the bloodstream, it can be a sign of underlying liver issues such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis.
Understanding the significance of ALT in liver function underscores the importance of taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle and protect your liver from harm.
Both of them are liver enzymes, but they have different roles and origins:
ALT is mainly produced in the liver and is a strong indication of liver disease.
AST is produced in various organs, including the liver, brain, heart, and muscles.
Elevations in ALT are more specific for liver injury, while AST can be caused by other disorders.
Intense exercise, which causes temporary spikes in ALT
Higher body weight or body mass index (BMI)
Medications
Wilson's disease, a rare genetic disorder that causes copper accumulation in the body
Menstruation
Elevated ALT levels can be a sign of liver damage or disease. It is essential to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes can all contribute to maintaining healthy ALT levels.
Fatty liver disease .
Hepatitis (liver inflammation).
Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver).
Taking medications that are toxic to your liver.
Liver tumor or liver cancer.
Liver ischemia (not enough blood flow to your liver, which leads to death of liver tissue).
Hemochromatosis (having too much iron in your body).
Mononucleosis ("mono").
Certain genetic conditions can affect your liver.
Related Tests to ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase):
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase):
Often tested alongside ALT to evaluate liver health. The AST/ALT ratio can help distinguish between different liver conditions.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):
Assesses bile duct function and liver health. High levels may indicate liver disease or bile obstruction.
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT):
Helps identify liver or bile duct damage and is often elevated with alcohol-related liver issues.
Bilirubin Test:
Measures bilirubin levels in the blood to evaluate liver function and detect jaundice or bile flow problems.
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH):
Elevated LDH may indicate liver damage or other tissue damage.
Prothrombin Time (PT):
Tests how well blood clots; abnormalities may suggest liver dysfunction.
Albumin Test:
Low albumin levels can indicate liver disease as the liver is responsible for producing albumin.
Viral Hepatitis Panel:
Identifies hepatitis A, B, or C infections, which can elevate ALT levels.
Autoimmune Liver Disease Tests:
Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA): Detects autoimmune hepatitis.
Anti-Mitochondrial Antibody (AMA): Identifies primary biliary cholangitis.
Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP):
A tumor marker used to screen for liver cancer in high-risk individuals.
It will take several hours to get the result
Abdominal pain
Dark-colored urine
Exhaustion (feeling tired)
Itching
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Light-colored stools
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
