ALT (SGPT)
Test:
103
CPT:
84460
Synonyms
1-Glutamic Pyruvate Transaminase
2-SGPT
3-Transaminases
Special Instructions
Expected Turnaround Time
Within 1 day
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Within 1 day
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube. Do not use oxalate, EDTA, or citrate plasma.
Collection
Separate serum or plasma from cells within 45 minutes of collection
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; excessive lipemia; improper labeling
Test Details
Use
A liver function test, ALT is more sensitive for the detection of hepatocyte injury than for biliary obstruction. ALT is more specific for liver injury than AST (SGOT). Useful for hepatic cirrhosis, other liver disease. Increased in Reye syndrome, with AST.1 Test for hepatitis. Acute hepatitis A or B can be confirmed serologically, as can hepatitis C. Negative serological findings in the presence of hepatitis-like chemistry abnormalities may also suggest acute drug-induced hepatitis, an impression supported by resolution after removal of the offending agent.2 The combination of increased AST and ALT with negative hepatitis markers occurs in a number of other entities including infectious mononucleosis. Sensitive to heart failure.