Alanine Aminotransferase, ALT
Test Code: SGPT
CPT Code: 84460
Alternate Ids
LAB2221
Synonyms
ALT;SGPT; Glutamic Pyruvate Transaminase; Transaminases
Specimen Type
SERUM
Alternate Specimen Type
PLASMA
Specimen Container
SST, PST - Do not use oxalate, EDTA, or citrate plasma.
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Temperature
Room temperature
Methodology
Enzymatic/Kinetic
Stability
3 days room temperature, 7 days if refrigerated
Schedule
Daily
Place of Service
TCH
Additional Information
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) measurements are particularly useful in the diagnosis and management of certain liver diseases, e.g., viral hepatitis and cirrhosis. ALT activity in tissue is generally much lower than aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity and is found in highest concentrations in the liver. Significant elevations of ALT occur only in diseases of the liver. ALT is often measured in conjunction with AST to determine whether the source of the AST is the liver or the heart. ALT is normally not elevated in cases of myocardial infarction, i.e., a normal ALT, in conjunction with an elevated AST, tends to suggest cardiac disease. However, slight elevations of ALT may occur if an infarct destroys a very large volume of heart muscle.
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