ALT | Alanine aminotransferase

Alanine transaminase (ALT) - increased ALT enzyme activity is usually considered one of the most sensitive indicators of liver pathology. It is one of two transaminases used in the clinic. ALT is found in the cells of almost all tissues. The highest ALT activity is determined in the liver, kidneys, muscles, and leukocytes. In case of liver damage, ALT activity in the serum increases rapidly. In the case of damage to the kidneys, heart muscle, striated muscles, and hemopoietic organs, no significant change in this enzyme is found.

The greatest changes in ALT activity (increase tenfold or more) are found in acute hepatitis, acute liver percussion disorders, and acute liver necrosis caused by ingested toxins, including paracetamol and carbon tetrachloride. Mild to moderate elevations in ALT levels may also occur after alcohol ingestion or the use of drugs containing penicillin, salicylates, or opiates.

Recommendations:

• It is recommended to be performed prophylactically once a year, as one of the main indicators of liver function, for disease diagnosis and treatment control, it is performed periodically according to the doctor's instructions.
• The results of the test are affected by the drugs, diet, and alcohol used.
• It is necessary to arrive before 12 o'clock fasting to take the test.